With pollution levels in Milan’s air approaching four times the recommended limit, the city is considering a proposal to ban cars from its centre.
In this regard, Mayor Giuseppe Sala said that he is determined to combat pollution in the densely populated metropolis of 1.4 million residents and anticipates implementing similar measures in the future. If approved, the ban is expected to take effect in 2024, SchengenVisaInfo.com reports.
According to Euronews, Milan stands as one of Europe’s most polluted cities, primarily attributed to the high concentration of fine particles, a hazardous pollutant affecting human health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) considers a long-term average of 5 μg/m3 (micrograms per cubic meter) as the safe threshold. Unfortunately, Milan’s air quality exceeds this standard by almost fourfold, recording a concerning 19.7 μg/m3.
Furthermore, to combat dangerous levels of emissions, the Milan authorities have also presented a proposal to ban private traffic within the city centre. As a result, surveillance cameras will be installed along Corso Venezia to monitor traffic and prevent private cars from entering.
Several exceptions to the ban are outlined, including residents with private garages and individuals who need access to parking facilities, taxis, and public transport. Those found to be entering the area without authorisation could face fines, although the mayor did not specify the exact amount.
At the same time, Euronews explains that the initiative also aims to transform some of Milan’s busiest neighbourhoods into more pedestrian-friendly areas, such as Stylish Fashion Quadrilatero, home to many high-end boutiques.
While Milan’s mayor, Giuseppe Sala, is pushing for extensive traffic restrictions across the city, the idea of a complete car ban from 2024 has faced criticism, particularly from suburban ‘commune’ Sesto San Giovanni’s mayor, Roberto Di Stefano. He pointed out that this measure unfairly penalises not only Milan residents but also those from the suburbs who depend on commuting.
Milan’s car ban is a collaborative initiative, as other European cities are also exploring similar strategies. Stockholm recently announced plans to block petrol and diesel cars from entering its city centre, aiming to curb emissions and reduce pollution. These new regulations are scheduled to take effect on December 31, 2024.
Paris, too, has aspirations of eliminating private vehicles from its historic centre by early 2024 in anticipation of the Olympic Games. This move could remove up to 100,000 cars from the roads of the French capital on a daily basis.