Austrian Traffic Club claims fine-dust pollution is higher than ever

The Austrian Traffic Club (VCÖ) warned today (Fri) that fine-dust pollution in Austria is higher than ever.It said pollution levels were highest in Vienna but also too high in Wiener Neudorf, Graz, Salzburg, Linz and Hall in Tirol.The club noted that 25 measurements exceeding acceptable levels were permissible annually but added there had already been 42 of them so far this year. Advised levels had been exceeded in at least one city in each province except for Burgenland.VCO expert Martin Blum said: “People are suffering from fine-dust pollution that is dangerous for their health. Preventive measures in effect are insufficient to cope with the problem.”He called for a reduction of traffic in polluted areas. “The availability of public transport in urban areas must be increased, and part of the proceeds from higher fuel taxes should be invested in better railway connections for commuters,” he added.