Bouches-du-Rhônes is on level 1 alert due to fine particle air pollution this Friday, January 17. The metropolis is activating its transport emergency plan.
Bouches-du-Rhône is facing an episode of fine particle air pollution. The level 1 alert is triggered for this Friday, January 17, indicates the prefecture in a press release. The prefecture notes a “deterioration in air quality and concentrations expected in the department for the second consecutive day”.
In response, the Aix-Marseille-Provence metropolis and its operators are activating the first measures of the Transport Emergency Plan.
“As of tomorrow, Friday January 17, 2025, the Aix-Marseille-Provence metropolis will put in place the first support and incentive measure for the use of alternative transport to the car by offering,” explained the metropolis in a press release .
Consequently, the first 30 minutes of each trip on the Marseille self-service bicycle system “Levélo” will be free, for the duration of the pollution episode. Beyond these 30 minutes, the rate is 0.05 euros per minute.
The metropolis is preparing for a level 2 alert
If for the moment the alert is level 1, the metropolis is preparing for the possibility of a move to level 2. If this were to happen, a series of new measures would be put in place. Relay car parks would be free in Aix-en-Provence, that is to say those of Krypton, Malacrida, Hauts de Brunet, route des Alpes and Plan d’Aillane.
In terms of public transport, the metro and tramway offer would be reinforced during peak hours, and a single Solo ticket or trip would allow travel all day on the RTM and Aix en Bus networks.
Caution for people at risk
Furthermore, the prefecture has issued several pieces of advice, particularly for individuals. It recommends reducing your driving speed by 20km/h, without however going below 70km/h where possible. Speed controls and anti-pollution controls must also be strengthened.
It is also recommended to reduce intense physical and sporting activities, and to consult a doctor in the event of respiratory or cardiac discomfort. And in the event of particular risk factors, the prefecture also recommends avoiding travel on major roads and their surroundings during peak periods.
The department had already suffered fine particle pollution in the first days of January 2025.
