What's happened
On July 5, 2025, Paris opened three designated swimming areas in the Seine, following a €1.4 billion cleanup project. This marks the first time since 1923 that swimming is permitted in the river, with safety measures in place and water quality meeting European standards.
What's behind the headline?
Overview
The reopening of the Seine for swimming is a significant milestone for Paris, reflecting both environmental progress and a cultural revival.
Key Points
- Historical Context: Swimming in the Seine was once a popular activity until pollution led to a ban nearly a century ago. The recent cleanup has transformed the river into a viable swimming location again.
- Public Sentiment: While many Parisians are excited about the opportunity to swim in the heart of the city, skepticism remains among some residents regarding water safety.
- Safety Measures: The city has implemented strict safety protocols, including lifeguards and continuous water quality monitoring, to ensure a safe swimming experience.
- Cultural Impact: This initiative not only enhances the quality of life in Paris but also promotes a sense of community and connection to the river, which has historically been central to the city's identity.
Future Implications
The success of this initiative could lead to further investments in urban waterway cleanups globally, encouraging other cities to explore similar projects. The long-term goal of making the Seine drinkable could reshape urban water management practices.
What the papers say
According to AP News, the Seine's reopening for swimming is a 'symbolic moment' for the city, with sports coach Lucile Woodward expressing excitement about families enjoying the river. Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post highlights the establishment of three outdoor pools along the Seine, emphasizing the city's commitment to improving public health and quality of life. However, skepticism persists, as noted by The Independent, which cites concerns about water quality variability despite compliance with European standards. This contrast illustrates the balance between optimism for urban revitalization and the caution necessary for public health.
How we got here
Swimming in the Seine was banned in 1923 due to pollution and safety concerns. A significant cleanup effort, costing €1.4 billion, was undertaken in preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics, leading to improved water quality and the reopening of swimming areas.
Go deeper
- What safety measures are in place for swimmers?
- How has the water quality improved over the years?
- What are the reactions from local residents about swimming in the Seine?
Common question
-
What Films Are Showcased at the Upcoming Film Festival?
The upcoming film festival is set to honor notable actors and showcase a variety of films. With a mix of classic and contemporary works, this event promises to be a highlight for cinema lovers. Here are some common questions about the festival, its impact on the film industry, and the awards being presented.
-
What to Know About Euro 2025: Teams, Players, and Key Matches
Euro 2025 is set to be an exciting tournament, showcasing top teams and standout players. As the Women's European Championship kicks off, fans are eager to learn about the competing teams, key matchups, and the players to watch. This page answers common questions about the tournament and highlights what makes Euro 2025 unique.
More on these topics
-
Paris is the capital and most populous city of France, with an estimated population of 2,150,271 residents as of 2020, in an area of 105 square kilometres.
-
France, officially the French Republic, is a country consisting of metropolitan France in Western Europe and several overseas regions and territories.
-
The Seine is a 777-kilometre-long river and an important commercial waterway within the Paris Basin in the north of France. It rises at Source-Seine, 30 kilometres northwest of Dijon in northeastern France in the Langres plateau, flowing through Paris and
-
Ana María "Anne" Hidalgo Aleu is a Spanish-French politician serving as Mayor of Paris since 2014. She is the first woman to hold the office.