Recent test results have revealed elevated levels of E. coli in the Seine River less than two months before swimming competitions are set to take place during the Paris Olympics. The contamination levels were found to exceed safe limits for athletes, particularly after heavy rainfall in Paris during the first eight days of June. Bacteria such as E. coli and enterococci were detected at levels considered unsafe for swimmers.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed confidence that the races will proceed as scheduled, including the men's triathlon on July 30 and subsequent events. Despite the IOC's reassurances, the final decision on the safety of the water for athletes rests with the governing bodies of individual sports, World Aquatics and World Triathlon.
The water quality of the Seine has been a point of concern, with some test events last August being canceled due to similar issues following heavy rains. The safe limit for E. coli, according to European standards, is 900 colony-forming units per 100 milliliters, a threshold that was frequently exceeded in early June.
Efforts to address the contamination issue include the inauguration of a massive reservoir in May capable of storing excess rainwater to prevent overflow into the Seine. Factors contributing to water pollution in urban rivers like the Seine range from runoff and chemical dumping to boat traffic.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo had pledged to swim in the river before the start of the competition but postponed her swim until after the conclusion of snap elections in France on July 7. The upcoming Olympic events in the Seine, including marathon swimming races, will continue to be monitored for water quality to ensure the safety of participating athletes.
