Security tightened in Paris for the Olympic Games

The Paris Olympics are just around the corner and French authorities are not taking any risks on security as the national terrorism alert remains at the highest level.

Police from France and dozens of other countries, along with local security personnel, have been deployed to patrol key landmarks including the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées in the run-up to the Games.

For the first time, the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony will be held outdoors. Some 300,000 spectators are expected to gather along the Seine on Friday evening for the spectacular spectacle.

As part of their measures, French authorities have set up security perimeters, known as ‘grey zones’, near the river and tourists must request a QR code in advance to enter.

“The police are very present around the Olympic venues and events, and the implementation of the red and gray zones blocks pedestrians and vehicles when they deem it necessary. I think they are good, even though I can’t really walk on the Seine now because I don’t have a gray pass,” American tourist Mitchell Hasenpflug told RTHK.

Takehiro Kinoshita, who traveled from Japan with his family to the skateboarding event, said he was surprised at how clean and prepared the city is for the Games.

“I always feel safe because you see police everywhere, and that’s great, so I can’t complain,” he said.

But not everyone finds it funny.

According to Dominique, a local resident, traffic is increasing due to the restricted zones and the influx of people.

“I think it’s terrible, but we had no choice… but no, of course you have inconvenience for these Olympic Games.”

Some businesses in the closed areas indicate that they are also feeling the pressure and complaining about the lack of customers.

Some also said they would remain closed for a few days, until after the opening ceremony on July 26.