Cries of “It is warm!” echoed across the Seine River as Parisians took a historic plunge into its waters for the first time in over a century. Public swimming was officially allowed in designated areas, marking a significant moment for the city, which has been working towards this day for years.
Two newly constructed wooden decks near the iconic Eiffel Tower and the Île Saint-Louis in central Paris served as the primary swimming spots. Before dawn on Saturday, a municipal officer diligently removed the last remnants of algae, preparing the river for its eager swimmers. As the sun rose, Parisians lined up, towels in hand, ready to embrace this long-awaited opportunity.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy as swimmers entered the emerald-green waters. Each swimmer was equipped with a bright yellow lifebuoy, part of the stringent safety measures enforced by lifeguards in high-visibility vests. The river’s gentle current served as a reminder of its urban nature, yet it was a welcoming embrace for those who had waited so long.
The Path to Clean Waters
The return to swimming in the Seine is the result of a 1.4 billion-euro ($A2.5 billion) clean-up project, a key initiative tied to the upcoming 2024 Olympics. According to officials, the Seine now meets European water quality standards on most days. Mayor Anne Hidalgo, a prominent advocate for the project, demonstrated her confidence by taking a dip herself and showcasing a bottle of the river’s water.
Environmental authorities have confirmed that bacteria levels are well below the thresholds set by health regulations, making the Seine safe for public enjoyment. This development marks a significant turnaround for a river that was once deemed too polluted for swimming.
A Century of Waiting
Swimming in the Seine had been prohibited since 1923 due to pollution concerns and the risks posed by river traffic. While designated swimming areas are now open, taking a dip outside these zones remains illegal for safety reasons. Despite the improvements, remnants of urban life, such as floating debris, still occasionally appear, but the notorious sewage odor has been replaced by a more natural, earthy scent.
Amine Hocini, a 25-year-old construction worker from Paris, expressed his delight at the opportunity to swim in the heart of the city. “It’s so nice to swim in the heart of the city, especially with the high temperatures we’ve been having lately,” he said. “I’m surprised because I thought it was going to be cooler and in fact, it’s much warmer than I thought.”
Looking Ahead
The reintroduction of swimming in the Seine is not just a recreational triumph but also a testament to the city’s commitment to environmental restoration and urban renewal. With the 2024 Olympics on the horizon, Paris aims to showcase its progress on the global stage, proving that urban waterways can be revitalized and enjoyed by the public.
As Parisians continue to embrace this newfound freedom, the city remains vigilant in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the Seine. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other cities looking to restore their own urban rivers.
Meanwhile, the joyful cries of swimmers enjoying the Seine once again are a poignant reminder of the positive changes that can be achieved through dedication and environmental stewardship.
