In 2025, it should be possible to swim in the Seine again in Paris – for the first time in more than 100 years Serious boat accident involving migrants: Greek minister speaks for the first time

From 2025, residents and visitors to Paris will be able to swim in the Seine for the first time in over 100 years. Mayor Anne Hidalgo named the three places that should be ready for swimmers by then. In addition to a water sports center already used for leisure activities, these will be two other locations in a central location, one of which is not far from the Eiffel Tower. The water areas must be demarcated with buoys and accessible via a jetty. The city announced that there will also be changing and shower rooms.

Being able to swim in the Seine again is a long-cherished wish in the French capital. This was officially banned in 1923, but swimming was still practiced until the early 1960s. The problem is the water quality of the river.

Olympia 2024 as incentive

The project was given a boost by the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Individual swimming competitions take place in the Seine. To this end, extensive efforts have already been made to improve water quality. According to the city, 1.4 billion euros will be invested in a cleaner Seine in the region around Paris.

“This is a long-held dream and it is well on its way to finally becoming a reality,” the city said. “Safe swimming in the Seine becomes possible.” Much of the work should be completed by summer. It involves connecting 23,000 homes to the sewer system, which previously discharged their raw sewage into the Seine. In addition, 260 houseboats will be connected to the sewage system. Sewage treatment plants are also being modernized or newly built.

A floating outdoor swimming pool was built a few years ago in a side arm of the Seine. The visitors do not swim in the river itself, but in the pools that are anchored in the water. (sda/dpa)