Kantaralak: Cambodia is burning forests along its border, and the resulting smoke is affecting communities in Kantaralak District, Sisaket Province. The smoke from the fires has covered nearly the entire Preah Vihear-Phu Makheua mountain range, raising concerns among local residents.
According to Thai News Agency, the border area between Thailand and Cambodia is engulfed in thick smoke that spans almost the entire mountain range near Preah Vihear and Phu Makheua. This situation has caused alarm among villagers who report that the smoke originates from forest fires on the Cambodian side, allegedly set by Cambodian soldiers. The fires, driven by strong winds, have become uncontrollable, leading to extensive smoke drifting into Thailand. Some days, the smoke has been so severe that it has caused breathing difficulties for the villagers.
A village headman mentioned that the sight of forest fires and smoke has been a constant since the clashes in the area subsided. However, in the past week, the fires have intensified, particularly in the evenings. He expressed concern that if the fires continue to spread across Phu Makheua mountain, it could lead to significant consequences, including respiratory illnesses and increased PM2.5 pollution levels.