Ile-de-France Airparif unveiled this Monday a complete map of pollution in the metro and RER in Paris.
The concentration level of fine particles is “high” in 13 stations, according to the air observatory.
The vast majority of the 426 station platforms and underground stations have an “average” level of pollution.
Under the paving stones, pollution? A complete mapping of air quality in the underground transport network of the Paris region provides a worrying assessment this Monday, October 14. Only a third of stations have a level of fine particles considered low, while 13 stations have a “high” level, according to Airparif.
Three lines particularly affected
The study by the air observatory in Ile-de-France analyzed 426 train platforms and underground stations. Among them, 13 therefore display concentration levels of fine particles (new window)PM10 greater than 480 µg/m3. A threshold which represents the maximum recommended by the National Health Security Agency (ANSES) from one hour of exposure. The stations concerned are all located on lines 2, 5 or 9 of the metro. These are Belleville, Iéna, Jaurès, Laumière, Michel-Ange-Auteuil, Michel-Ange-Molitor, Oberkampf, Ourcq, Père-Lachaise, Pigalle, Saint-Philippe-du-Roule and Trocadéro.
Airparif also noted an “average” level of pollution on 276 docks. Only 123 stations respected levels considered low. The fault is mainly the friction between the wheels and the rails during each braking, which resuspends iron particles, although other factors are also cited, such as the structure of the stations. “The type of rolling stock, and particularly braking, has a great influence on air pollution levels“, argues Airparif in its analysis. The presence of landing doors on platforms and ventilation are also “parameters of notable influence”ensures the organization.
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In the streets or on the quays, the observation is therefore similar. In 2023, 70% of Ile-de-France residents will be exposed to levels of fine PM10 particles higher than WHO recommendations, again according to AirParif (new window).
As a reminder, the high concentration of fine particles in the air can cause respiratory difficulties or illnesses, particularly among vulnerable people.
