The Seine is now swimmable, according to a study by the specialist NGO Surfrider Foundation

These results contrast with the previous study, unveiled in the spring, which highlighted an “alarming” state of the waters of the Seine.

The Seine is now swimmable and will be able to welcome swimmers at the end of July for the triathlon and marathon swimming events at the Paris Olympic Games, according to a study by the specialist NGO Surfrider Foundation obtained Tuesday, July 16 by France Inter.

The NGO, which specializes in water quality and the protection of the ocean and rivers, carried out surveys on July 4. The results contrast with the previous study, unveiled in the spring, which pointed to a state “alarming” from the waters of the Seine.

According to the latest analyses, the concentrations of Escherichia coli bacteria are for the first time below the thresholds recommended by ANSES and sports federations. The concentrations of enterococci, which can cause septicemia or urinary tract infections, have also fallen below the regulatory thresholds.

In its previous study, unveiled on April 8, the NGO had pointed out that out of 14 measurements carried out, 13 turned out to be “above, or even very much above” recommended thresholds for swimming. This improvement in water quality can be explained by the construction of the new water retention basin located near the Gare d’Austerlitz, which prevents polluted water from dirtying the Seine after heavy rains.