Brussels issues pollution warning

11 December 2003

BRUSSELS – Brussels officials urged motorists to use public transport Wednesday, after a sharp rise in air pollution in the capital.

The Institute for Management of the Environment blames the recent cold snap with temperatures of minus 5 degrees Celsius and strong winds for the spread of polluted air.

The Institute urged motorists not to drive into Brussels for the next few days in an attempt to lower the level of pollutants in the air – a level which could effect human health.

Officials say that an expected warm front bringing rain towards the end of the week, should alleviate the problem.

Subject: Belgian news