Since 2015, the city of Paris has launched an operation to decontaminate the river in order to make it swimmable and safe by 2025.
The Seine, a majestic river, full of history, flowing under emblematic bridges of Paris, its lively quays… the postcard is idyllic, but here is the question that has been burning the lips of all Parisians and tourists for several weeks: can you really swim there in complete safety?
Regular analyses show notable progress. However, the water of the Seine can be scary, and is not yet up to the bathing standards of some heavenly beaches. It is, like all rivers and streams, sensitive to the vagaries of the weather, such as storms or the extreme heat that rages in Paris.
“I don’t know. I’m kind of one of those who thinks that the water can be dirty, like we swim here and there can be little things that touch our legs. But I don’t know, if they did tests and they say it’s good, I’ll trust the professionals. But I’m not sure I would swim in this water” says a Dutch tourist passing through Paris.
For some it is a matter of habit, but it also takes a dose of courage.
“Yes, of course I would swim there. Because when it’s hot in Amsterdam, I also swim in the water there, so yes, that’s good, I think I could do it.” says another Dutch tourist interviewed.
A major project to clean up the river
Since 2015, Paris has undertaken a gigantic cleaning of the Seine with a substantial budget approaching one and a half billion euros.
The operation, initially intended for Olympic athletes (the triathletes underwent their baptism of fire on Wednesday), should one day allow all Parisians to take a dip in the largest municipal swimming pool in France.
A bright future?
Let’s imagine for a moment this future where the Seine would become the favorite bathing place of Parisians. Developed beaches, colorful cabins, tanned lifeguards. We could organize sandcastle competitions and beach volleyball tournaments. The barges transformed into floating bars would broadcast music, and Parisians would sunbathe on the quays, cocktail in hand!
But before this dream comes true, there is still a long way to go.