VIENTIANE, April 9 (Xinhua) -- Laos continues to struggle with dangerously high levels of air pollution, with PM 2.5 concentrations exceeding national safety standards across the country.

According to the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Environment on Wednesday, PM 2.5 concentrations reached 196 micrograms per cubic meter in the Lao capital Vientiane, while several other provinces recorded levels above 100 micrograms per cubic meter, exceeding the safety threshold of 50 micrograms per cubic meter.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Phakkavanh Phissamay, director general of the Department of Environment under the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, reported 1,306 fire hotspots nationwide on Tuesday, with the highest concentrations in Oudomxay, Luang Prabang, Xayaboury, and Savannakhet provinces.

Authorities said the main causes of the hotspots were biomass burning, forest fires, and transboundary haze.

Phakkavanh urged the public to avoid burning waste, wear face masks, and limit outdoor activities during the dry season.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment issued a notice on Jan. 15 in preparation for wildfires expected between January and April. The notice calls for tighter controls on burning, faster fire detection, and stronger coordination between central and local authorities.

As air pollution is expected to rise significantly during March and April, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment continue to work together and are calling for collective action to reduce pollution and protect public health.■