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The Paris ring road, the Boulevard Périphérique, is one of the busiest roads in France and its capital, Paris. More precisely, it is the inner ring road, 35 kilometres long - there are three in total (Boulevard Périphérique, Périphérique de l'Ile-de-France, Francilienne). This popular motorway is used by around 1.5 million motorists every day, so it is not surprising that traffic jams and slow-moving traffic are common. On the Boulevard Périphérique, there are now two very important changes to this popular route that must be observed in order to avoid costly traffic offences.

 

The 30 km/h speed limit has been in force in the capital for almost four years. However, the speed limit on the ring road was 70 km/h. This has now been reduced to protect the environment. Where the speed limit was previously 70 km/h, it has now been reduced to 50 km/h. The Mayor of Paris hopes that this will not only help protect the climate, but also improve the health of the people of Paris. Especially for the 50,000 people who live near the ring road. However, this change is not entirely new, as it has been in force since 10 October 2024. Failure to comply could result in a fine of at least 135 euros. The same applies to holidaymakers, of course, so be careful.

 

The situation is different with regard to the new 'carpool lane', which will come into force on 1 March 2025. This is the leftmost lane on the road, which can only be used by taxis, buses, carpools and people with a disabled badge from Monday to Friday between 7am and 10.20am and 4pm and 8pm. There must be at least two passengers in a carpool. The idea is that, according to the city, at least 80% of drivers travel alone, but some of them could join forces.

 

This should reduce congestion, noise and pollution. Individuals would also benefit by saving on fuel costs. In fact, there will be a transitional period for the special lane, during which no fines will be imposed for non-compliance. You will simply be informed by a display board to change lanes if necessary. This may be a change to the 'carpool lane' or a change to one of the regular lanes.

However, the transitional period will only last until 1 May 2025, after which a fine of at least €135 may be imposed if the AI-based enforcement system detects a speeding offence. They reserve the right to make changes at short notice, so keep an eye on the signs. For example, the carpool lane may be removed due to traffic congestion. In the first instance, however, it should be assumed that the lane is only available to the relevant groups.

Such a lane does not only exist there. They also exist on the A13 and A1 motorways in the Paris region. It is important to check before you go on holiday.

Source: Pixabay/ architecture-1850689_1280