Paris Makes History: Seine River Opens for Public Swimming This Summer, First Time Since 1923
Paris Makes History: Seine River Opens for Public Swimming This Summer, First Time Since 1923
In a historic moment for the French capital, the River Seine has officially opened for public swimming this summer season, marking the first time Parisians and visitors can safely dip into its waters since 1923. The eagerly anticipated reopening, which commenced recently, is a direct result of extensive clean-up operations spurred by the river’s use as a venue for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Three dedicated swimming sites along the Seine’s banks within the city are now welcoming over 1,000 swimmers daily, with access continuing until August 31. Early participants have expressed overwhelming delight and surprise at the water’s condition. “Really nice, I’m impressed, surprised,” remarked 24-year-old Victoria Cnop, a Brazilian resident of Paris. Another swimmer, 51-year-old Karine, enthusiastically noted, “The water is clean, it’s warm, it’s clear. There is a bit of algae, but that’s normal. Come here, everybody, it’s great!”
The remarkable improvement in water quality is the culmination of significant investments by authorities. These efforts included connecting tens of thousands of homes to the sewer system, upgrading water treatment facilities, and constructing large rainwater storage reservoirs to prevent overflow during heavy storms. While some initial Olympic training sessions were impacted by heavy rains, the successful hosting of competitions in the Seine for the 2024 Games bolstered confidence in the river’s safety for public use.
To ensure ongoing safety, daily water quality tests are being conducted throughout the swimming season. A clear green and red flag system, akin to beach safety protocols, will indicate whether swimming areas are open or closed to the public. Beyond the three central Paris locations, 14 additional swimming areas are planned for the Seine and Marne rivers outside the capital’s boundaries, with two on the Marne already operational since June.
This initiative is being hailed as a triumph for both the environment and urban life. John Drummond, a 54-year-old visitor from Canada, summarized the sentiment: “It’s wonderful. It’s great for the environment, it’s great for the city, it’s great for the people that live here. So very good initiative.”
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