Athenians get first taste of Olympic measures.

(From Athens News Agency)

Athenians on Sunday got their first taste of measures to ease congestion and boost security for the Athens 2004 Olympics, which begin on August 13

In place for the first time were restrictions on movement along major highways leading to Olympic venues, with buses, private vehicles, and event-accredited coaches, taxis and automobiles channelled into three separate lanes to facilitate movement for athletes, sports officials and media. Lane violators will be filmed on security cameras and charged 156 euros

Also taking effect were circulation and parking restrictions around Olympic venues and selected spots in the city centre; and at midnight an airspace control coordinating centre was due to begin monitoring the Athens flight region to ensure safety and security for flights, which are increasing ahead of the games

The control centre belonging to the Civil Aviation Authority and reporting to the ministries of transport, public order and defence will be run by specially-trained staff to monitor air traffic and provide immediate solutions if complications occur. Flights are expected to peak between August 9 and 13

On Monday, an expanded Olympics shopping schedule takes effect, with stores due to stay open between 0900 and 2100 hours this month, closing at 1800 hours on Saturdays. Banks in central Athens, tourist areas and near Olympic ...