The Thai Department of Pollution Control (PCD) has revealed a list of five most polluted roads in Bangkok, following a recent survey.

The PCD has measured the level of particulate matter of 10 microns in diameter or smaller (PM10) in over 50 different parts of Bangkok and its vicinities from November 2012 to February of this year.

Topping the list is Ratchadapisek Road, where the average daily level of PM10 far exceeded the safety level. Runners-up on the list are Romklao Road, Rama III Road, Phahonyothin Road and Charoen Krung Road respectively.

The survey revealed that the PM10 level around these congested roads reached up to 344 micrograms per cubic meter last year, whereas the level considered safe is no more than 120 micrograms per cubic meter. The high level of PM10 exacerbates existing asthma and increases risks of heart and lung diseases.

A recent study stated that the level of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, cancer-causing atmospheric pollutants, in Bangkok is more than twice the safety limit.-VNA