Police officers patrolling under the Eiffel Tower, which is decorated with Olympic rings, as part of heightened security measures for the Paris Olympics 2024. © Twitter (@AFP)
The Paris Olympics 2024 Opening Ceremony enters its final week, French authorities are intensifying security measures to make sure the safety of this historic event. This year’s ceremony is a spectacular departure from tradition, with athletes parading along the River Seine rather than a stadium-only display. With this unique setup, authorities leave no stone unturned to safeguard participants and spectators.
The city of Paris has mobilized a vast team of security personnel led by the army to oversee the event’s safety. This team includes specialized soldiers, divers, sniffer dogs, and drone operators, all working in unison to secure the area. Soldiers from various specialist regiments are already patrolling the city, meticulously checking key locations to ensure the festivities proceed without incident.
The Paris Olympics 2024 Opening Ceremony will feature over 10,500 athletes on 94 boats traveling a six-kilometer route from the Austerlitz Bridge to a grand finale in front of the Trocadéro. This parade, starting at 19:30, will allow a limited number of spectators to watch from quays and grandstands set up on the bridges, making it a truly immersive experience. However, this also presents unique security challenges.
In the days leading up to the event, divers have meticulously inspected the hulls and engines of the 180 boats participating in the river parade. These inspections are crucial to ensure no explosives or other threats are present in the 3.5 km stretch between the Nelson-Mandela and Austerlitz bridges. Despite challenging conditions, including low visibility and strong currents, the divers are equipped with advanced systems like the Full Range Oxygen Gas System (FROGS), allowing them to stay underwater for extra periods and conduct thorough searches.
On the day of the parade, eight high-speed patrol boats will monitor and block access to the river, ensuring the route remains secure. Additionally, an anti-intrusion barrier with an underwater net will be deployed if a threat arises, providing an added layer of security.
On the banks of the river, soldiers equipped with advanced drones and anti-drone measures will keep a vigilant eye on the surroundings. These measures include the latest MILAD systems and jammer guns, designed to neutralize unauthorized drones that may pose a threat. This technological edge is essential in maintaining a secure environment for the parade and the spectators.
Trained dog teams will also be on hand to support the patrolling soldiers. These teams specialize in human detection, neutralization, and explosive detection. Among them is a three-year-old Malinois named Stimo, prepared to respond to threats with impressive speed and precision. These canine units are an essential component of the security operation, providing an extra layer of safety with their keen senses and training.
The Paris Olympics 2024 Opening Ceremony is set to be a breathtaking spectacle, showcasing the city’s beauty and the Games’ spirit. With the enhanced security measures, French authorities are confident that the event will proceed smoothly, allowing athletes and spectators alike to enjoy the festivities without concern.
As the world watches, Paris is ready to deliver an unforgettable opening to the Olympic Games, combining tradition with innovation and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all involved.