The people of Paris, France are mostly looking forward to the City of Light hosting the 2024 Olympics. However, there was some controversy recently, as the bouquinistes (booksellers) who line 3 km (1.9 mi) of the River Seine were up in arms as local officials said they would have to move during the major sports event. Since that time, it has been agreed that the iconic stalls could stay in place. How much is France’s capital ready for the major sports event and what is still to be done?

Paris prepares for the 2024 Olympics

As it gets closer to the day when the 2024 Olympics are set to start, most people are looking forward to sharing their city with a new audience. As reported recently, city officials are cleaning up the River Seine so people can swim there.

On the subject of the Seine, when the 2024 Olympics kicks off on July 26, all national teams will sail down the river on a fleet of 100 boats. Moreover, this is the first time in history that an opening ceremony is held outside the city’s main stadium.

Bouquinistes complain about moving their book stalls

However, the city’s iconic bouquinistes (booksellers) were told they would have to move their distinctive dark green stalls, which normally line the river, would have to move during the event. During the early planning for the event, local police announced that 600 of the 900 stalls would need to be removed. The justification was that the stalls would be ideal for concealing explosive devices.

Meanwhile, the booksellers complained to the city’s officials, comparing the absence of their stalls to a “tooth extraction.” Moreover, they threatened to take legal action to prevent their removal from the shores of the Seine.

As the argument continued between the booksellers and local officials without a resolution, President Emmanuel Macron had to intervene. Macron asked the interior ministry and police to ensure none of the bookstalls, which have been a feature in the city for 150 years – would have to move during the sports event.

Status of the Notre Dame Cathedral

It will be remembered that the Notre Dame Cathedral, another major Paris emblem, suffered a devastating fire in 2019. City officials have been working on rebuilding the iconic cathedral, but this won’t be complete in time for the 2024 Olympics.

However, according to the Etablissement Public (part of the Ministry of Culture), the cathedral’s spire should be ready and visible in time for the games. AFP News Agency reported, stating that “Dismantling the scaffolding has started and will continue over the coming months.”

The French President had initially promised that the restoration of the iconic landmark would be complete in time for the Games. However, work has been delayed until December this year due to several unexpected setbacks.

In other exciting news relating to the Paris Olympics, it was reported that futuristic flying taxis will be available to transport the event’s spectators.

Readers, are you planning on visiting Paris during the 2024 Olympic Games? Let us know by dropping a comment below.