Tehran Enforces Strict Traffic Plan to Combat Severe Air Pollution
In response to a critical spike in air pollution levels, authorities in Tehran have activated a stringent, city-wide traffic control scheme. The “Odd-Even” plan, now being enforced from the point of a vehicle’s departure from home, represents one of the most comprehensive mobility restrictions ever implemented in the capital.
The Core Regulation: How the Odd-Even Plan Works
The system is straightforward yet far-reaching: on any given day, only vehicles with license plates ending in a digit matching the day’s parity (odd or even) are permitted to be driven. Unlike previous versions confined to the city center, this iteration applies to the entire metropolitan area of Tehran. The key enforcement mechanism is automated; a network of cameras will identify and fine any vehicle that leaves its parking spot in violation of the rule, making the driver’s home the first point of compliance.
A Substantial and Fixed Penalty
The penalty for violating the Odd-Even rule has been officially set at 200,000 Tomans. Police authorities have emphasized that this fine is definitive, applied per violation without any discounts or suspensions. If a vehicle is caught multiple times in a single day, a separate fine will be issued for each infraction.
A Multi-Pronged Strategy for Cleaner Air
The traffic plan is just one component of a broader emergency protocol approved by the Air Pollution Emergency Committee. Several complementary measures are being implemented simultaneously to maximize the reduction of pollutants:
- Suspension of Daily Traffic Permits: The sale of daily permits for entering the central traffic zone has been halted. This prevents an influx of vehicles that could undermine the goals of the Odd-Even plan.
- Crackdown on Polluting Vehicles: Police are conducting rigorous inspections targeting smoke-emitting vehicles. Any car found releasing excessive pollutants will have its technical inspection certificate revoked and will be banned from roads until the fault is rectified.
- Closure of Preschools: To protect vulnerable citizens and reduce family commutes, all kindergartens and preschools across Tehran province (with the exception of Firuzkuh) have been temporarily closed.
Rationale Behind the Strict Measures
The decision to implement such a rigorous plan stems from air quality indices (AQI) reaching levels deemed unhealthy for all residents. The primary objective is a significant reduction in the number of private vehicles on the road, which are a major source of urban pollution. By leveraging smart camera systems for enforcement, authorities aim to create a more effective and error-free control mechanism than manual checkpoints could provide.
This coordinated government effort underscores a committed approach to addressing environmental challenges and safeguarding public health through decisive policy action. The measures are expected to result in a noticeable decrease in traffic congestion and a corresponding improvement in air quality for the citizens of Tehran.