Pollution spike prompts speed limit reduction

High pollution levels have prompted authorities in Haute-Garonne to temporarily reduce speed limits on route nationale and autoroutes.

Limits on routes nationale in the department were this morning cut 20kph to 70kph, while the top speed on autoroutes for the duration of the pollution spike has been reduced to 110kph from 130kph.

The pollution alert was triggered after levels of the fine particles in the air exceeded a threshold of more than 50 microgrammes per cubic metre for the past 48 hours. The build-up has been caused by a period of calm weather, which has meant the particles have not been dispersed.

As well as the lower speed limits, officials have urged commuters to consider carpooling for longer journeys, or to walk or cycle shorter journeys, while avoiding over-exerting themselves.

Despite the cold weather, they have asked home owners not to light fires, and have issued a reminder that the burning of green waste is banned.