Paris, France: In anticipation of the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics slated to take place in Paris from July to September next year, tourists are bracing themselves for a significant increase in metro ticket prices.
Valerie Pecresse, the president of the Île-de-France region encompassing Paris, announced in a video posted on social media that single metro journeys would cost 4 euros, nearly double the current fare of 2.10 euros.
Addressing concerns about the impact on visitors, Pecresse unveiled the “Paris 2024 Pass,” a new transportation pass priced at 16 euros per day.
This pass aims to provide tourists with unrestricted access to the entire Île-de-France region during the specified period of the Olympics and Paralympics, from July 20 to September 8.
“We will create a new [transport] pass, the Paris 2024 Pass, that will allow visitors to move across the entire Île-de-France. It will cost 16 euros per day. That is the fair price,” Pecresse explained in a statement, emphasizing the necessity of adjusting prices during this extraordinary period.
To address potential concerns from locals, Pecresse assured that residents with monthly or annual public transport passes would be exempt from the impending price hikes.
This move aims to alleviate the financial burden on regular commuters during the heightened tourist season.
The decision comes in the wake of Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s recent admission that the city’s public transport network might not be fully prepared for the influx of tourists during the Olympics and Paralympics.
While efforts are underway to enhance transportation options, concerns persist about the system’s readiness to accommodate the massive crowds expected.
This public transport challenge is the latest in a series of issues raising questions about Paris’s preparedness for hosting the Olympics.
Earlier this year, the city faced scrutiny over potential bedbug infestations, with videos circulating on social media purportedly showing bedbugs in the Paris metro, Charles de Gaulle airport, and trains in the country.
Although fears have since subsided, these incidents have added to the scrutiny surrounding the city’s ability to host a successful and seamless Olympic event.
As Paris navigates these challenges, including transportation and pest-related concerns, all eyes are on the city’s authorities to ensure a smooth and memorable experience for both residents and the influx of global visitors during the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
