site.btaTraffic Police Tightens Control over Car Exhaust Emissions in Sofia

Sofia, January 4 (BTA) - Environment Minister Neno Dimov and Sofia Mayor Yordanka Fandakova presented here on Thursday engine exhaust analyzers at the Traffic Police headquarters. The equipment will assist the Municipality's efforts to curb air pollution in the capital.

Minister Dimov said that he seeks financing from the European Commission so that the Interior Ministry can become a beneficiary under OP Environment. According to him, engine exhaust analyzers must be used across the whole country so that they can have a tangible impact.

Sofia Mayor Fandakova noted that seven exhaust analyzers have been provided to the Traffic Police, which the Municipality purchased for 70,000 leva. Drivers will be given a month to check their exhaust emissions before fines are issued, she explained.

Head of Sofia's Traffic Police Tencho Tenev noted that there are two mobile exhaust analyzers, which will be installed in patrol cars. If exhaust emissions exceed the norms, a statement of traffic violation will be issued and the vehicle will be suspended, he explained.