Milan and Rome ban cars amid rising pollution

PanARMENIAN.Net - Two of Italy's largest cities, Milan and Rome, are restricting car use as smog levels build up, BBC News reports.

Milan is banning cars, motorcycles and scooters for six hours a day over the next three days.

In Rome, cars with odd-numbered plates have been banned for nine hours on Monday, December 28. On Tuesday, cars with even-numbered plates will be restricted.

Experts say unusually calm and dry weather means that pollution is not being dispersed.

In Rome, cars deemed to be environmentally friendly, such as those with hybrid engines, are exempt from the ban.

Milanese authorities have introduced a special "anti-smog" all-day public transport ticket for €1.50 ($1.65). The ban there will be in force for six hours a day until Wednesday, with drivers facing fines if they do not comply.

Milan was named as Europe's most polluted city in 2008 and it remains among the worst on the continent. City officials have limited traffic on several occasions in the past, first trying out a ban in 2007. The capital Rome has limited traffic on several occasions.

Two major Spanish cities have also imposed measures to reduce pollution. A 90km/h (56mph) speed limit was introduced in the Barcelona area last week and parking for most vehicles has twice been banned from the centre of Madrid since last month.