(Paris) An unusual iron curtain appeared in the heart of Paris on Thursday, with the establishment of an anti-terrorist security perimeter on the banks of the Seine. This long serpentine is intended to prevent Parisians, as well as the thousands of tourists present in the French capital, from accessing the tributary unless they have submitted an application for a precious pass.
The most common words were “QR code,” a pass that gives access to the banks of the Seine even though they are located in the security zone that has been set up in preparation for the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics on July 26.
“I didn’t know it started today,” admitted Emmanuelle Witt, a 35-year-old freelancer who was stopped by a police officer near the Alma Bridge while riding her bike. She then rushed to her phone to fill out an online access request to obtain her “QR code,” unaware that such a request can take several days to process.
Those with the precious pass – in their phone or on a piece of paper – were able to easily pass through the high security barrier closely guarded by the police.
Those who did not have one had to turn back – despite the grumbling and anger expressed by some of them, leaving the police unmoved.
“This is exaggerated, it’s beyond belief, this is all a farce,” said Nassim Bennamou, a delivery man who was unable to cross the barrier at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris on his scooter.
“Even my GPS is confused; I don’t know how I’m going to get to work today,” he added.
Although authorities launched the “QR code” system last year and have been meeting with area residents for months to raise awareness about safety measures, many were unaware of its existence. Many tourists have been asked to take detours to access the City of Lights’ tourist attractions.
“We didn’t know we needed a QR code,” admitted Takao Sakamoto, a 55-year-old Japanese tourist who had to turn back near the Bir Hakeim metro station, located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
For others aware of the measures, who were able to cross the barriers without difficulty, they were able to enjoy a unique experience: parading freely in the city center of Paris, practically deserted, on a beautiful summer’s day.
“It’s unbelievable; it’s like we’re alone in the world,” said Canadian Sarah Bartnicka. The 29-year-old, who was jogging with her friend, took a selfie with a police officer on the deserted Jena Bridge to immortalize the moment.
“I understand why they have to do this,” said Carla Money, a 64-year-old American who was able to cross the barriers with her family members to visit the area around the Saint-Michel fountain.
The security perimeter went into effect early Thursday morning and will remain in place during the opening ceremony. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Paris has decided to hold the opening ceremony on the Seine rather than in a stadium, as previous host cities have done. Most security measures in place near the Seine will be lifted after the ceremony.