Paris restricts driving as pollution hits danger level

[The Straight Story]

Paris restricts driving as pollution hits danger level

The French government will on Monday introduce alternate driving days in Paris for the first time in nearly two decades to tackle dangerous levels of air pollution in the city.

It is only the second time the French authorities have ever resorted to the drastic restriction, which means that drivers will only be able to use their cars on alternate days.

The government made the announcement after pollution particulates in the air exceeded safe levels for five days running in the capital and surrounding areas.

All public transport was made free over the weekend to persuade residents to leave their cars at home.

By Saturday the number of pollution particulates in the air had fallen slightly after hitting a high of 180 microgrammes per cubic metre -- well over double the safe limit -- on Friday.

http://www.thelocal.fr/20140316/paris-restricts-driving-as-pollution-hits-danger-level

[malaise]

1. I heard an amazing explanation about the pollution on BBC this morning

They said that it is warmer than usual but the early mornings are still cold so exhaust fumes are taking much longer to raise and creating a hell of a situation.

[CreekDog]

2. It's unhealthy, it's high, but these are levels we see in the USA

at times without such restrictions.

but good on them for taking action to protect people. it's a city with terrific public transportation.