Could Monday's Partial Ban on Cars Give Choking Paris a Breather?

While tidal surge along its Atlantic shoreline last weekend provided a grand spectacle for France, another surge in its capital Paris is proving a matter of concern.

The city witnessed a spike in levels of Particulate Matter 10 (PM 10) in air quality readings last week. The city witnessed a blanket of choking smog, prompting authorities to impose a driving ban for half of Paris's cars on Monday.

According to France 24, the air quality index measured by Plume Labs touched 125 for Paris, higher than any other city in the world during last weekend.

Diesel cars and heavy vehicles are being blamed for high pollution levels. Paris's transport commissioner's office was quoted saying that diesel cars made before 2001 will be banned starting July. However, the political backing for a congestion charge in the city, on the lines of London, is slim, though such a move could decongest and accrue revenue for the city.

The one-day ban will allow cars with odd numbers to ply on roads. Restrictions will be eased for ambulances and vehicles carrying more than three passengers. Public transport is being made available free of cost to deter people from using their cars. A similar ban was imposed last year which brought down pollution levels.