Chiang Rai on Thai-Myanmar forest fire alert

CHIANG RAI, March 9 (TNA) -- A large-scale forest fire raging out of control for three days is carrying dust, dirt and darkness from Myanmar to wide areas along the Thai-Myanmar border and Thai authorities are preparing for a possible spread of the conflagration across the mountainous frontier.

Seen from the Thai side, heavy smoke has been filling the skies of Mae Sai, Mae Fa Luang, Chiang Saen and Mae Chan districts for three days and ash has been deposited across a wide landscape.

As a result, many local residents at Thai-Myanmar border are suffering from eye irritation and fear of respiratory ailments from dirt, dust and possible toxic pollutants.

The fire broke out in a forest in Myanmar territory on the opposite of Huay Nam Rin village, Viangphangkham sub-district, Mae Sai district and spread to an area of about 200 rai or 320,000 square metres.

The severe fire has been raging through bamboo forest and dry deciduous forest leaves, which are tinder-dry before the onset on the rainy season, according to forestry observers.

Provincial officials are expressing concern that the wide-ranging blaze appears to be moving closer to Thai territory, prompting Thai officials to prepare for firefighting duties, especially near the Thai Army's 3rd Cavalry base in Chiang Rai province.

Many soldiers have been assigned to dig fire blocking trenches and to prepare for other possible fire-fighting duties.

It has been speculated that the ongoing forest fire may have been caused by villagers who may have negligently lighted a fire during land clearing and preparation for the new planting season, or irresponsibly burning forest tracks to drive wildlife out of the forest for hunting purposes.

TNA