As the excitement surrounding the Olympic Games in Paris continues to build, the city’s restaurant owners are facing a major setback. Despite hopes of a surge in business as crowds flock to the city, many restaurants along the River Seine are struggling to attract customers. The reason for this, according to owners, is a police security perimeter that is deterring visitors from entering the area.
The security measures put in place by authorities to ensure the safety of Olympic attendees have inadvertently created a ghost town atmosphere along the usually bustling riverfront. Restaurant owners who had been preparing for a busy summer season filled with international visitors are now facing empty streets and dwindling profits.
The impact of the security perimeter on these businesses has been severe, with some reporting a decrease in customers by as much as 50%. Many restaurant owners are now calling on authorities to reconsider the security measures in order to help businesses stay afloat during this crucial time.
The struggle of Paris restaurants amid the Olympic security measures serves as a stark reminder of the unintended consequences that can arise from heightened security protocols. As the Games approach, it remains to be seen whether authorities will take steps to alleviate the burden on local businesses and ensure that they can still benefit from the influx of visitors to the city.
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Video “‘Empty streets’: Paris restaurants struggle amid Olympic security • FRANCE 24 English” was uploaded on 07/22/2024 to Youtube Channel FRANCE 24 English