Joe
Paris, July 22, 2024– Tourists are advised to reconsider visiting Paris unless attending the upcoming Olympics, as the city grapples with significant disruptions. Preparations for the unprecedented Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony on the River Seine have led to extensive security measures, affecting many central areas.
Starting July 18, metal barriers have been erected along the Seine, implementing security protocols designed to safeguard millions of people, including 10,500 athletes. These measures come amid France’s current political unrest, terrorism threats, and global tensions related to conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
**Access Restrictions and QR Codes**
Until July 27, entry to central Paris, home to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, requires a “games pass” – a QR code. Although announced last year and communicated to residents for months, some tourists remain unaware of these restrictions, leading to confusion.
**Security Zones and Movement Restrictions**
Two security perimeters have been established: the gray perimeter (Security, Insecurity, and Fight against Terrorism, or SILT), near the Seine, and the red perimeter surrounding it. Within the gray zone, movement requires the QR code, while the red zone bans motorized traffic but allows free movement for pedestrians, cyclists, and scooter users. The digital pass applies to those over 13 and can be obtained from the Pass Jeux website after an administrative review.
**Local Impact**
Parisians have expressed frustration over the restrictions. Businesses, particularly cafes and restaurants along the Seine, have seen reduced foot traffic. Taxi drivers are also struggling due to limited city center access.
**Ambitious Ceremony Plans**
The grand Opening Ceremony on Friday will feature thousands of athletes and performers along a 6km Seine stretch, starting from the Austerlitz bridge and passing landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral before ending near the Eiffel Tower.
**Strong Security Measures**
Security is visibly tight, with 45,000 personnel deployed for the July 26 ceremony. Tony Estanguet, president of the Paris 2024 organizing committee, emphasized the necessity of robust security to ensure a safe and celebratory event.
**Public Transport Changes**
Security measures include the closure of some metro and RER stations, with metro and bus fares doubled. Bus tickets now cost €5, up from €2.50.
Post-ceremony, security perimeters will focus on competition venues, restricting access to ticket holders or those with Paris 2024 accreditation.
