GWR
02-01-08, 01:58 PM
Tainan first city in Taiwan to ban engine idling
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
CNA
TAIPEI, Taiwan -- Tainan City in South Taiwan became the first in the country yesterday to ban vehicle idling, threatening to fine drivers as much as NT$2,000 for leaving their engine running for more than three minutes when stopped.
City officials on Tuesday began enforcing an anti-idle policy, under which violators will be fined NT$500 for motorcycles, NT$1,000 for small-size automobiles, and NT$2,000 for large-size automobiles.
Drivers who try to evade, interfere with or refuse inspections will face a fine ranging from NT$500 to NT$2,000.
So far, no violations were found among 58 scooter drivers and drivers of other motorized vehicles who underwent a surprise inspection by inspectors of the city's Bureau of Environmental Protection in several commercial zones in downtown Tainan Tuesday morning, according to city officials responsible for environmental affairs.
According to the inspectors, Tainan residents were mostly aware of the policy, but drivers from other cities and counties visiting the city seemed unaware that they had to shut down their engine when making a stop that lasts at least three minutes.
After being informed of the city's new policy, the visitors all voiced their understanding and support of the policy aimed at reducing vehicle emissions, officials said.
Engine idling from vehicles is considered harmful to the environment and people's health, as it emits small particulates into the air, which can enter and lodge in people's lungs and aggravate asthma.
http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/2008/01/02/137361/Tainan%2Dfirst.htm
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
CNA
TAIPEI, Taiwan -- Tainan City in South Taiwan became the first in the country yesterday to ban vehicle idling, threatening to fine drivers as much as NT$2,000 for leaving their engine running for more than three minutes when stopped.
City officials on Tuesday began enforcing an anti-idle policy, under which violators will be fined NT$500 for motorcycles, NT$1,000 for small-size automobiles, and NT$2,000 for large-size automobiles.
Drivers who try to evade, interfere with or refuse inspections will face a fine ranging from NT$500 to NT$2,000.
So far, no violations were found among 58 scooter drivers and drivers of other motorized vehicles who underwent a surprise inspection by inspectors of the city's Bureau of Environmental Protection in several commercial zones in downtown Tainan Tuesday morning, according to city officials responsible for environmental affairs.
According to the inspectors, Tainan residents were mostly aware of the policy, but drivers from other cities and counties visiting the city seemed unaware that they had to shut down their engine when making a stop that lasts at least three minutes.
After being informed of the city's new policy, the visitors all voiced their understanding and support of the policy aimed at reducing vehicle emissions, officials said.
Engine idling from vehicles is considered harmful to the environment and people's health, as it emits small particulates into the air, which can enter and lodge in people's lungs and aggravate asthma.
http://www.chinapost.com.tw/taiwan/2008/01/02/137361/Tainan%2Dfirst.htm