Milan bans cars until Wednesday to curb pollution

Rome: The Italian city of Milan has banned cars until Wednesday in an attempt to reduce the high levels of pollution, while other cities have opted for measures such as encouraging the use of public transport.

The Milan City Council said that the closure of traffic will remain in force from 10.00 a.m. until 4.00 p.m. Wednesday, with the exception of taxi services and public transportation, EFE news reported on Monday.

In addition, public transportation vehicles may not exceed 30 km per hour.

This measure was also applied in eleven municipalities in the Lombardy region.

As for the Italian capital Rome, it has deployed the odd-even scheme.

Rome also aims to reduce air pollution by encouraging citizens to use public transport and authorities have introduced a special "anti-smog" all-day public transport ticket for 1.50 euros ($1.65).