The Seine River in Paris has opened for public bathing for the first time in 102 years.

The Seine River in Paris has opened for public bathing for the first time in 102 years. This was reported on July 4 by France 24 TV channel.

It is noted that the restrictions have been in effect since 1923 due to pollution of the reservoir and waste from shipping. The cleanup effort cost France €1.4 billion to ensure that the water meets quality standards.

"For the first time in more than 100 years, Parisians and visitors to the city will be able to legally swim in the Seine, as three specially designated swimming areas opened on Saturday," the TV channel clarifies.

It is reported that bathing areas along the river will be under constant supervision of rescuers. One of the zones is located next to the Eiffel Tower.

So, before the opening, several dozen people gathered at one of the Bras Marie bathing areas. The bathing areas are equipped with changing rooms, showers and beach furniture, where 150 to 300 people can relax.

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo also said that such an initiative was for many the "fulfillment of a childhood dream." At the same time, according to a member of the Paris Mayor's office, people will be informed about the quality of the water in the Seine and if the water quality deteriorates, bathing will be banned again until its quality changes.

Swimming in the Seine will be allowed from July 5 to August 31 this year.

In July last year, Hidalgo said that for many years the Seine River had been considered a sewer, but professionals had cleaned it up for open water competitions at the 2024 Olympics. Shortly after, she announced that the purification of the Seine River was a major transformation in Paris.