As the highly anticipated 2024 Olympics draw near, the hosting city of Paris is facing a major setback concerning the open water swimming events. Recent heavy rains have left the Seine, the iconic river that runs through Paris, in a state of severe pollution, raising concerns about the safety of athletes and participants.

Paris, chosen as the host city for the Olympics, had planned for the Seine to not only hold a portion of the Opening Ceremonies but also serve as the venue for various open water swimming events including the triathlon and a 10,000-meter race. However, swimming in the Seine has been prohibited for over a century due to high pollution levels caused by sewage overflow during heavy rainfall.

To remedy this issue, the French government allocated a staggering $1.5 billion for a comprehensive clean-up effort in preparation for the Games. Regular testing of the Seine's bacteria levels was conducted, with results from mid-June revealing that the water quality still fails to meet the necessary standards for safe swimming.

Despite the disappointing results, officials remain optimistic that the conditions will improve in the coming weeks as the weather clears up. A test swim conducted last summer, although unpleasant, proceeded without major incidents. Authorities expect to hold the events as planned, banking on a change in weather conditions.

However, athletes and participants are understandably apprehensive about the risks associated with swimming in such polluted waters. Current tests have shown the presence of E. coli bacteria, an indicator of potential dangerous pathogens that can lead to various health issues, including gastrointestinal problems and even death.

In an attempt to reassure the public, French President Emmanuel Macron and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo pledged to swim in the Seine prior to the Olympics. However, their scheduled exhibit was postponed, adding to the growing frustration among Parisians. A planned protest, titled 'Je Chie Dans La Seine Le 23 Juin' (I s- in the Seine on June 23), was also postponed due to Hidalgo's commitment to early legislative elections. The protest aimed to criticize the excessive government spending and poor Olympic conditions.

As time ticks away, Paris faces the urgent challenge of bringing the Seine up to acceptable standards. Failure to do so could result in drastic modifications to the triathlon, potentially transforming it into a duathlon, or even the cancellation of the open water swimming events altogether. With no Plan B in place, the pressure is mounting for authorities to find a solution swiftly.

The upcoming Paris Olympics serve as a reminder that despite the city's rich history and cultural charm, it is grappling with significant environmental concerns. As athletes and organizers eagerly await improvements in the Seine's water quality, the clock is ticking, and Paris is running out of time to ensure the success of the open water swimming events and the overall safety of all participants.