Polluted Paris prepares for partial car ban

Paris launches alternate driving days for the first time in nearly 20 years to tackle dangerous air pollution levels amid controversy on whether the ban is warranted or will yield results.
The restrictions in the French capital and 22 surrounding areas will come into force from 5:30 am (0430 GMT) on Monday and could be extended until Tuesday, officials said.
About 700 police officers will be deployed to man 60 checkpoints to ensure that only cars and motorcycles with number plates ending in odd digits are on the roads.
Electric and hybrid cars will be exempted from the ban as well as any vehicle carrying three people or more.

Parking will be free on Monday for vehicles with even number plates, the Paris city hall said, calling on residents to consult carpooling or car-sharing sites to work out their commutes and rides.
The restrictions will be reviewed on a daily basis to determine if an extension is necessary. The ban means that drivers can only use their cars or motorcycles every other day.

It is only the first time since 1997 that the French authorities have ever resorted to such a drastic measure.
The government made the announcement yesterday after pollution particulates in the air exceeded safe levels for five straight days in Paris and its environs.

All public transport was made free over the weekend to persuade residents to leave their cars at home. It will remain free as long as the alternate driving days remain in force.