Measures Including Restrictions on Grade 5 Vehicle Operation
On November 19, Jangsu County in North Jeolla Province conducted a simulated emergency reduction measure drill for the 'Caution' level of the ultrafine dust (PM-2.5) crisis alert as part of its disaster response training for high concentrations of ultrafine dust during the winter season.
According to the county on November 20, the drill was based on a scenario in which the concentration of ultrafine dust (PM2.5) exceeded 150㎍/㎥ for more than two hours in North Jeolla Province and its 14 cities and counties, and the Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment issued a 'Caution' level crisis alert as the concentration was forecasted to exceed 75㎍/㎥ on that day.
The drill was conducted as a tabletop exercise and included measures such as the alternate-day vehicle operation system for administrative and public institution vehicles, as well as restrictions on the operation of grade 5 vehicles.
The alternate-day vehicle operation system for administrative and public institution vehicles was mainly promoted through publicity, while the restriction on grade 5 vehicles was implemented as a mock inspection with the enforcement system operating normally but without imposing fines, in order to identify areas for improvement in the system's operation.
In addition, the county implemented measures such as ▲adjusting the operating rates of public facilities ▲reduction measures at businesses and construction sites ▲restrictions on the use of official vehicles ▲expanded road cleaning ▲and restrictions on the operation of grade 5 emission vehicles.
The county also enhanced the effectiveness of the drill by applying shortened working hours at construction sites and businesses, as in a real situation, and restricting the use of old construction machinery.
Furthermore, the county comprehensively reviewed the division of roles between departments, the situation communication system, and resident guidance procedures required when emergency reduction measures for fine dust are issued, thereby strengthening the cooperation system throughout the drill.
Choi Hunsik, Governor of Jangsu County, stated, "High concentrations of ultrafine dust have a direct impact on the health of our residents, so we must be able to respond quickly and accurately when such situations arise. We will immediately address the improvements identified during this drill to establish an effective response system and do our utmost to protect the safety of our residents."
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