Paris Implements Carpool-Only Lane on Périphérique in Pollution Reduction Effort

The experimental lane, active during peak hours, aims to cut traffic, noise, and air pollution but faces skepticism over its effectiveness and enforcement.

A new carpool lane on the Paris Périphérique officially launched on March 3, reserving the left lane for vehicles with at least two passengers, public transport, taxis, emergency vehicles, and those with mobility challenges during weekday peak hours.
The initiative, inspired by the 2024 Olympic Games traffic measures, also extends to sections of the A1 and A13 highways, with some southern sections of the Périphérique excluded for now due to infrastructure limitations.
Authorities aim to reduce pollution and noise for the 500,000 residents near the Périphérique, where air quality remains a significant health concern, with 80% of vehicles typically carrying only a lone driver.
Enforcement will begin with a two-month educational phase using AI-assisted monitoring, transitioning to €135 fines for violators starting May 1, following human verification of infractions.
Critics, including opposition politicians and driver advocacy groups, have raised concerns about potential traffic congestion, uneven compliance, and the lack of an exhaustive impact study before implementation.