Paris is introducing a car-free zone in a bid to curb air pollution

Paris now has more traffic-free streets as a new car ban comes into effect in the top four central districts of the French capital, reports Euronews.

Around forty signs indicate the entrance to a new limited traffic zone, or 'ZTL', which was introduced by the city council.

Only certain vehicles, such as emergency vehicles, buses, taxis, cars for people with reduced mobility and drivers living or working in the area, will be allowed to travel through the ZTL.

The area, home to 100 people, covers an area of ​​about 000 square kilometers.

"Destination trips" that start and end in the zone are also allowed, such as going to a medical appointment, shopping or going to the theater.

City officials hope that this initiative will help reduce noise and air pollution in the center of the capital.

The air in Paris is currently classified as moderately polluted with fine particulate matter of 10,5 μg/m3, according to the New European Environment Agency. To protect health, the World Health Organization recommends a maximum level of 5 μg/m3.

The scheme is also expected to reduce traffic volumes on the busiest streets, including a 30% reduction on the popular thoroughfare Avenue de l'Opéra and a 15% reduction on Boulevard de Sébastopol, further east.

Paris is the next major city to focus on fewer vehicles, following in the footsteps of Madrid, Milan, London and Rome.

Yet many Parisians haven't noticed or simply don't care about the new measures.

There are currently no visible controls or checks. Some have slammed the scheme as unenforceable and warned it could lead to traffic jams and disruptions, as well as reduce foot traffic in this key shopping area.

Municipal police and civil service volunteers are planned to be on site for the next six months to raise awareness of the ban.

Will there be sanctions?

It is expected that in the first weeks and months there will be no penalties if drivers choose to ignore the ZTL. But after the initial information phase, the municipality plans to start controlling and fine unauthorized drivers up to 135 euros.

The authorities intend to install cameras at the entry and exit points of the ZTL to monitor the number plates of violators. However, city ordinances must first be changed to allow for these automatic checks.

To avoid fines, drivers are expected to justify access to the zone by filling out an online form with proof of the reason for their trip, such as a theater ticket or restaurant bills.

Drivers will also need to carry their resident card in case they need to present it at future checks.