Paris officials have taken a major step towards cleaning up the River Seine with the inauguration of a massive water storage basin. The basin, located next to Paris’ Austerlitz train station, is designed to collect excess rainwater and prevent contaminated wastewater from entering the river. This development comes as the city prepares to host marathon swimming events at the Paris Games and the swimming leg of the Olympic and Paralympic triathlons.
Last year, swimming test events had to be canceled due to poor water quality caused by heavy rains overwhelming the city’s sewers. The new reservoir can hold the equivalent of 20 Olympic swimming pools of dirty water, which will now be treated instead of being released untreated into the Seine.
Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo has pledged to swim in the Seine before the Olympics, showcasing her confidence in the improved water quality. The city has invested 1.4 billion euros in cleanup efforts, including the construction of new facilities like a water treatment plant in Champigny-sur-Marne.
The opening of the storage basin marks a significant milestone in the city’s efforts to revitalize the Seine and restore its ecosystem. With the return of various fish species to the river, Paris officials are now planning to open bathing sites to the public next summer.
The River Seine is set to play a central role in the grand opening ceremony of the Olympics, with over 200 athletes’ delegations parading on boats through central Paris. The city’s commitment to improving water quality and promoting the river as a recreational space highlights its dedication to creating a sustainable and vibrant environment for both residents and visitors.