Iron Curtain in Paris: Olympic Security Tightens Along the Seine

An iron curtain descended on central Paris on Thursday, as a newly established Olympic anti-terrorism perimeter sealed off a kilometers-long area along the River Seine. Paris residents and tourists are now required to have a QR code pass to gain access.

The much-discussed QR code has become essential for entry, guiding individuals through police checkpoints. People with the QR code, either on mobile devices or printed paper, passed through barriers with ease, while those without the code faced refusal, regardless of their protests.

The security perimeter, which became effective Thursday morning, will remain in place until the Olympic Games’ opening ceremony on July 26. This unique arrangement moves the ceremony from a traditional stadium to the river, with most security measures expected to be lifted afterward. Officers are instructed to be courteous as citizens adapt to the new restrictions.

(With inputs from agencies.)