Italy pollution: When in Rome, do as Delhi does

In a bid to battle the smog, Italy has deployed an odd-even scheme in Rome and banned cars in Milan

Rome: Rome and Milan have temporarily banned cars in an attempt to reduce the high levels of pollution, while other cities have opted for measures such as encouraging the use of public transport.

A woman rides her bicycle in central Milan after the ban on cars. Pic/AFP

Rome has deployed the odd-even scheme. Rome also aims to reduce air pollution by encouraging citizens to use public transport and authorities have introduced a special "anti-smog" all-day public transport ticket for 1.50 euros (Rs 108).

The Milan City Council said three-day-long closure of traffic will remain in force from 10 am to 4 pm till Wednesday, with the exception of taxi services and public transportation.

The ban is applicable on cars, motorcycles and scooters. Motorists have been warned that anyone who breaches the ban will face heavy fines. In addition, public transportation vehicles may not exceed 30 km per hour. This measure was also applied in 11 municipalities in the Lombardy region.

Traffic restrictions were also in place in Naples, where only vehicles operating to an emissions standard known as Euro 4 are allowed to ply this week.

Numerous locations have exceeded the 50 mg per cubic metre level which the World Health Organization regards as a ceiling, which should not be exceeded in the interests of the general wellbeing of urban populations.

84,400
No of premature deaths due to pollution in Italy in 2012

59,500
No. of the deaths were attributed to elevated levels of fine dust particles in the air

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