Paris Driving Ban Begins After 5 Days of Smog

Mar 17, 2014 10:29 AM EDT | Matt Mercuro

Police are monitoring traffic in Paris after air pollution exceeded safe levels for five consecutive days, according to the BBC.

Smoggy conditions have resulted in warm days and cold nights in Paris and surrounding locations, which have prevented pollution from dispersing.

Drivers that have vehicles with odd-numbered registration plates are currently allowed to be on the road in Paris

If restrictions remain in place on March 18, those with even-numbered vehicles will be allowed to drive instead, according to the BBC.

The measure has only been attempted in Paris once before, back in 1997.

"Paris air quality monitoring body Airparif says it had a noticeable impact on improving air quality, although critics have disputed its findings," said the BBC.

Motorcycles are also covered by the ban, though there are exceptions for electric and hybrid vehicles.

Vehicles carrying three or more passengers are also accepted, according to the BBC.

Those who choose not to comply with the restrictions will face a small fine.

On March 14, public transportation was made free of charge for three days to try keeping vehicles off the road. The measure was continued today, March 17, as well.

Delivery companies aren't happy with the measure however, due to "lost income," according to the BBC.

Opposition leader Jean-Francois Cope was quoted saying that the ban "lacks coherence, explanation and on the ground it's really panic".

On March 14, pollution levels reached 180 micrograms of PM10 particulates per cubic meter, which is over double the same limit, which is 80.

PM10 particulates are emitted by heating systems, heavy industry, and vehicles.

Levels dropped on March 16, but are expected to rise again today, according to BBC.

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