Diesel trucks and buses emitting toxic fumes must now be modified to reduce the level of hazardous particulate matter they produce or be banned from the roads in Tokyo as well as Chiba, Kanagawa and Saitama prefectures.

Those failing to comply are subject to a fine of up to 500,000 yendollars).

"About 100 motor-vehicle pollution inspectors ... or 'auto G-men' as they are nicknamed are out in Tokyo today to spot violations," a Tokyo city government official said.

About 180,000 diesel-engine vehicles, mostly trucks, come into Tokyo every day, according to the city government.

Video cameras were also set up along main roads to record the number plates of vehicles which tried to escape the net.

The new rule only applies to vehicles over seven years old which were made before manufacturers' emission standards were tightened.

TERRA.WIRE