Paris Mayor Swims in Seine to Show Cleanliness

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo swam in the Seine River to demonstrate its cleanliness ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games, addressing public concerns about water quality. This symbolic swim, which included other officials and local swimmers, highlighted the city's €1.4 billion clean-up effort to make the river safe for Olympic events such as triathlon and marathon swimming. Although recent tests showed fluctuating E. coli levels, officials assert the river is now suitable for use. Hidalgo's swim fulfills a promise made in January and underscores the broader environmental goals of reducing ocean pollution and adapting urban spaces to climate change. The Seine will also feature prominently in the Games' opening ceremony, emphasizing Paris's commitment to revitalizing the historic waterway.