Tiber River in Rome to be accessible for swimming within five years
The mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri, has proposed an ambitious plan to transform the Tiber River into a public bathing spot. The idea has sparked both enthusiasm and doubt among the public, as the river's water quality has been a source of concern for some time.
The Tiber, which flows through the heart of Rome, is often contaminated by pesticides and E. coli bacteria. This has led some experts to question the feasibility of the plan, given the potential risks to public health. However, Gualtieri believes that the costs for making the Tiber swimmable will be lower than the 1.4 billion euros spent on cleaning up the Seine.
Despite the pollution concerns, tourist cruises continue to operate on the Tiber. The river's historical significance, as the place where Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were abandoned and saved, adds to its allure.
Gualtieri has stated that the goal of making the Tiber swimmable is achievable within five years. He has also claimed that some sections of the river are already suitable for swimming on certain days. However, no definitive cost estimate for the project has been provided yet.
The vast rehabilitation program aims to give new life to the Tiber and make it more attractive to both Romans and tourists. The municipality has been working to rehabilitate the Tiber River and its banks, as demonstrated by the Rome Jubilee clean-up and redevelopment of the quays.
The project has also been linked to the 2024 Olympic Games, with the Tiber River being considered for public bathing during the games. However, it's worth noting that jumping into the Tiber from a city bridge is a popular tradition that takes place every January 1st, despite it being forbidden to swim in the river. Those who dare to swim risk a fine of several hundred euros.
The Italian press is cautious about the remaining environmental and health challenges. Despite this, Gualtieri remains optimistic, recently making a more assertive statement about the project to Italian media L'Espresso. The Tiber, with its rich history and potential for renewal, continues to be a topic of discussion and debate in Rome.
The Mediterranean Sea, located 30 kilometers from the center of Rome, remains an alternative for swimming. Regardless of the outcome of the Tiber project, it's clear that the city's residents and visitors will always have access to water for recreation.
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