Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has expressed confidence that the water quality in the River Seine will be up to Olympic standards this summer. She even stated that she will swim in the river to prove it, possibly alongside President Emmanuel Macron. The Seine is set to host the marathon swimming competition and the swimming leg of the Olympic and Paralympic triathlons. With new facilities being built to clean up the river, Hidalgo is optimistic about the water quality, which was recently criticized by an environmental group.
One of the new facilities that has been inaugurated is a water treatment plant in Champigny-sur-Marne, located east of Paris. Additionally, a large storage basin is set to open next week to reduce the amount of bacteria-laden wastewater that is discharged into the Seine untreated during heavy rainfall. Hidalgo has planned an event called “the big dive” towards the end of June or beginning of July, where she has invited top officials, including Macron, to swim in the Seine. Many volunteers have already expressed interest in joining the dive to showcase the improved water quality in the river.
Despite a recent NGO report highlighting poor water quality in the Seine during the winter, officials remain confident that the water will be safe for swimming during the Olympic Games and beyond. The city plans to open some areas to the public for swimming starting in 2025. The estimated cost of the cleanup efforts is 1.4 billion euros, with routine water testing set to begin on June 1 with the operation of new treatment facilities. During the Olympics, water quality will be monitored daily at 3 a.m. to ensure the safety of athletes. Events may be rescheduled or canceled if pollution levels are deemed too high.
However, concerns have been raised about the pollution levels in the Seine, with environmental groups warning of health risks for athletes swimming in the river. The Surfrider Foundation labeled the Seine as “a particularly polluted spot” after monitoring bacteria levels for six months. Despite these concerns, Paris Mayor Hidalgo remains focused on ensuring that cultural and sports celebrations across the city during the summer are successful. Security is a top priority, with around 30,000 police officers expected to be deployed each day during the Games and 45,000 during the opening ceremony on the Seine. Hidalgo emphasized the importance of balancing security measures with the freedom to celebrate and live together.
In conclusion, Paris is making significant efforts to improve the water quality in the River Seine ahead of the Olympic Games this summer. Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s commitment to swimming in the river and inviting other officials to join her demonstrates her confidence in the cleanup efforts. While concerns remain about pollution levels and health risks for athletes, officials are implementing measures to monitor and maintain water quality during the Games. With a focus on security and cultural celebrations, Paris is gearing up to host a memorable Olympic event while ensuring the safety and well-being of participants and visitors.
