NEWS

Driving ban in central Athens

No cars will be allowed in central Athens for two and a half crucial hours during this morning’s rush hour, while driving will be restricted in the broader city center under a European Union initiative intended to boost the use of public transport. To drive the message home, public transport will be free all day. Taxis, which are not subject to the restrictions for cars, will not. The inner zone of daily traffic restrictions (mikros daktylios) will be closed to all cars from 6.30 a.m.-9 a.m. At the same time, the outer zone will only be open to cars whose number plates end in an even digit. Other restrictions meant to encourage cycling and walking will come into effect on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday under European Mobility Week. Yesterday, the Consumer Institute watchdog (INKA) said it was organizing a car-pool scheme mainly targeting people who drive to work every day at the same time in a city of some 2 million cars. People interested in taking part should call INKA at 1721, or contact them by e-mail at [email protected].

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