Oslo bans diesel cars due to high air pollution

Diesel cars will not be allowed to run here for at least two days this week, the first time Oslo introduces such a ban because of acute hazardous air pollution, Norway's largest newspaper Aftenposten reported Monday.

Those who drive diesel cars on municipal roads in central Oslo from Tuesday could get a fine of 1,500 kroner (176 U.S. dollars). The ban will last until pollution levels are lower, Aftenposten said.

"According to the forecasts, there will be more circulation in the air Wednesday night and we might then lift the ban," said Alise Davidsen, communications director of Oslo City's environment agency.

"When the concentration of nitrogen oxide exceeds a certain value in a wider area over time, it is decided that we should introduce a temporary ban on diesel vehicles as an immediate measure," Davidsen said.

The combination of freezing temperatures and stagnant air makes the formation of a "cap" of polluted air of the city.

Robert Jensen, who drives a diesel car to and from his workplace, said it takes him 45 minutes to reach his job by car, but "if I were to take public transportation I would have spent over an hour and a half."

Jensen said he had bought his car in 2013, when diesel cars were recommended since they were supposed to be more environmentally friendly. Now he is very unsure of what he will do on Tuesday.

"I have seen on Facebook that many said they were going to ignore it and drive the car anyway. I heard the police won't enforce it, but it is no fun to pay 1,500 kroner," he said. Endit