The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) announced the results of its Low Emission Zone (LEZ) initiative, highlighting a 15.6% reduction in PM2.5 levels compared to surrounding areas. The number of six-wheeled trucks entering the LEZ decreased by 12%, averaging 2,982 trucks per day. Plans are in place to enforce penalties on non-compliant vehicles outside the Green List and encourage operators to maintain vehicles to help lower PM2.5 emissions.
On January 25, 2025, Mr. Pornprom Vikitsreth, Adviser to Governor of Bangkok and the first Chief Sustainability Officer of BMA, detailed the LEZ’s role in reducing air pollution and its impact on public health. The LEZ, established within Bangkok’s Ratchadaphisek Ring Road area, bans vehicles with six wheels or more, except for EVs, NGVs, EURO 5-6 vehicles, and Green List-registered trucks. Implemented from January 23 to 24, 2025, the measure aims to address air pollution and protect public health during high PM2.5 levels.
The PM2.5 concentration in the LEZ dropped significantly, showing a 105% improvement compared to the usual 7.6% difference observed in other areas. The initiative led to an average daily reduction of 404 six-wheeled trucks entering the LEZ. Among the 38,408 vehicles registered on the Green List, when combined with the “Dust-Free Vehicles” project, the total reaches 299,160 vehicles. These vehicles maintain their engine components, reducing emissions by 50%, or 0.89 kilograms per year—equivalent to a 14.96% reduction in traffic-related emissions.
Operators can join the Green List by submitting maintenance records, such as oil and filter changes, via the Google Form available at Green List Registration. CCTV cameras and AI technology enforce compliance, with penalties for violations including fines up to 2,000 THB or imprisonment for up to one month. In cases where construction projects use non-compliant vehicles, future operations may face suspension.
The LEZ includes the inner Ratchadaphisek Ring Road area, covering nine districts: Dusit, Phaya Thai, Phra Nakhon, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Samphanthawong, Khlong San, Sathorn, Pathum Wan, and Bang Rak. Additionally, it impacts 13 districts and 31 subdistricts along the road: Bang Sue (Wongsawang), Chatuchak (Chatuchak, Lat Yao, Chandrakasem, Chomphon), Huai Khwang (Huai Khwang, Samsen Nok, Bang Kapi), Din Daeng (Din Daeng, Ratchadaphisek), Ratchathewi (Makkasan), Watthana (Khlong Toei Nuea), Khlong Toei (Khlong Toei), Yannawa (Chong Nonsi, Bang Phongphang), Bang Kho Laem (Bang Kho Laem, Bang Khlo), Thon Buri (Dao Khanong, Samre, Bukkhalo, Talat Phlu), Bangkok Yai (Wat Tha Phra), Bangkok Noi (Bang Khun Non, Arun Amarin, Bang Khun Si, Ban Chang Lo, Siriraj), and Bang Phlat (Bang Phlat, Bang Bamru, Bang O, Bang Yi Khan).
For more information, contact the Air and Noise Quality Management Division at 0 2203 2951.
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