Tehran Low Emission Zone Operational

After a month-long delay, the first phase of Tehran’s Low Emission Zone plan became operational on October 22.

The plan, which aims to tackle air pollution, will use cameras to scan vehicles’ license plates. Cars, which have not undergone mandatory annual quality inspection, will be fined 500,000 rials ($15) per day, Carnet.ir reported.

Tehran’s LEZ covers an area of 80 square kilometers and previously only worked one way, which was between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Throughout the Iranian week (starting Saturday), cars were allowed to enter designated areas on alternate days depending on the odd and even number of the number plate. Vehicles that did not comply were fined 200,000 rials ($6) for every hour of transgression.

Friday is the weekend in Iran, during which restrictions on vehicles are not in place.

The expanded phase of the LEZ plan will become operational in two months and cover the entire capital.

According to Traffic Police chief, General Taqi Mehri, the same plan can be administered in the other main cities of the country, if it proves effective in Tehran.

Before the obligatory vehicle inspection scheme was implemented, police officers would randomly check on drivers to see whether or not they had the needed documents.

Tehran also has a smaller LEZ designated in the Central Business District.

Although the operating hours are from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., only taxis and cars with a special entry permit are allowed in this zone, regardless of their number plates and vehicle inspection documents.