Rashi Mehta
The romantic Seine River in Paris is facing scrutiny over its suitability for hosting swimming events during the 2024 Olympics. While the Seine was last used for Olympic swimming over a century ago, Parisians are expressing doubts about the water’s cleanliness through a series of protests, some more whimsical than others.
A History of Swimming in the Seine
The Seine’s history with Olympic swimming dates back to 1900, when the river hosted seven swimming events. However, concerns about rising pollution levels led to a ban on swimming in the Seine in 1923. Despite this, the 2024 Olympic bid included a goal of reviving recreational swimming in the river, with ambitious plans for creating 20 swimming areas along the Seine by 2025.
The Seine’s transformation into a viable swimming venue has proven challenging. Over the past century, a combination of factors, including increased population and heavy rainfall events, have contributed to overflows of untreated sewage into the river. This has caused a rise in harmful bacteria like E. coli and Enterococci, exceeding safety limits set by the European Union.
Symbolic Protests and Official Efforts
In response to these concerns, a satirical online campaign emerged earlier this year. The movement, complete with a website and the hashtag “#JeChieDansLaSeineLe23Juin” (translates to “I Shit in the Seine on June 23rd”), aimed to highlight the potential health risks for Olympic athletes.
Parisian officials have acknowledged the challenges and undertaken efforts to improve water quality. These initiatives include a €1.5 billion plan featuring an underground rainwater storage tank and upgraded sewage treatment plants. Mayor Anne Hidalgo even took a dip in the Seine while wearing a wetsuit, attempting to reassure the public.
Despite ongoing efforts, the Seine’s water quality remains susceptible to weather conditions. Organizers have formulated backup plans, including potentially replacing swimming sections of triathlon events with a duathlon format. As a last resort, marathon swimming events could be relocated to a different venue.
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