Paris has introduced a dedicated lane to streamline access to Olympic venues, which has been closed to regular traffic.
Since its opening on Monday, July 15, 400 fines have already been issued.
According to the French Prefecture, a special traffic plan has been implemented to address the mobility challenge posed by the logistical organisation of the Olympic Games.
Paris, already known for its heavy traffic, has recently made significant efforts to improve circulation and create a more pedestrian-friendly environment. This initiative follows the example of the ‘City of 15 Minutes’ concept.
Spanish outlet, AS, reported the closure will affect around 200 kilometres of traffic in Paris, as well as in the surrounding areas of the French capital. The closure is for normal traffic, and aims to facilitate the movement of athletes, but also other professionals involved in the development of the Games, such as emergency services or the media.
The lanes will be divided on four major motorways leading into the capital, the ring road and some roads in the city centre, in a multi-phase scheme that will last until the end of the Olympic Games in September, when the Paralympic Games will also end.
The aim is to enable athletes to reach all the competition venues, both in Paris and in the suburbs, in less than 20 minutes from the Olympic Village in Saint-Denis.
In other words, in Olympic terms, the city of the 15-minute walk will become the city of the 30-minute drive, and this was a specific commitment included in the French bid.
And with the rules and the start of operations came non-compliance and the first fines: 400 in just two days, amounting to €135, according to the prefecture.
–Insidethegames.biz