The water of the Seine and its level of contamination
The most recent analyzes have revealed that the water of the Seine is not suitable for bathing due to its high levels of contamination. Although this has generated concern among the organizers of the Olympic Games, they remain optimistic about the development of the swimming events in the river.
The Government delegate, Marc Guillaume, has stated that currently the quality of the Seine’s water does not meet the necessary standards. However, he has assured that the analyzes carried out so far do not correspond to the standards that will be had during the summer.
Prospects for the Olympic Games
Despite the current situation, the organisers are confident that the Seine’s pollution levels will decrease by the end of July or beginning of August, when the swimming events will take place. Both the president of the Organising Committee, Tony Estanguet, and the government delegate, Marc Guillaume, expressed their confidence that the works carried out will allow the river to be in suitable condition for the competitions.
Paris 2024 plans for the Seine to be the scene of several aquatic events, such as the triathlon and the open water marathon. Although recent rains have made it difficult to treat the water before it reaches the river, it is hoped that the works carried out will allow the Seine to be ready for competitions during the summer.
An ambitious plan to improve water quality
French authorities have invested 1.4 billion euros since 2016 in a plan to allow bathing in the waters of the Seine, which have been banned for almost a century. Although there are still works to be completed, the Government delegate, Marc Guillaume, has stated that the plan is progressing and has requested that the results be evaluated in summer conditions.
Concerns and expectations
The quality of the Seine’s water is one of the main issues of concern for the organization of the Olympic Games. The organizers have had to cancel some tests planned on the river due to this situation. The city’s mayor, Anne Hidalgo, has also delayed her promise to bathe in the Seine before the Games to demonstrate her confidence in the cleanliness of the waters.
Despite the challenges, it is expected that the works and efforts made will allow the Seine to be in suitable condition for aquatic competitions during the Olympic Games. Organizers are confident that the measures taken will ensure safety and water quality for athletes and spectators.
