On January 15, 2025, a significant flood management project commenced in Seine-et-Marne, France, aimed at safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Seine River and its surrounding areas. This ambitious initiative, costing €114 million, involves the creation of a vast 360-hectare containment area designed to store excess floodwater, thereby protecting urban areas, including Paris, from severe flooding.
The containment area, referred to as the 'casier de la Seine Bassée,' will utilize pumps to divert up to 10 million cubic meters of water into the zone during flood events. This volume is equivalent to 4,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools. The operation is expected to lower the Seine River's water level downstream by as much as 15 centimeters, significantly mitigating flood risks.
However, the project has faced opposition from local residents and environmental groups, leading to legal challenges. Critics, including France Nature Environnement, have raised concerns about the ecological impact and the necessity of expropriations for the project. Despite these challenges, the project aims to balance urban safety with the preservation of local flora and fauna.
The initial filling phase of the containment area is set to last for two days, following precautionary measures to protect both the public and local wildlife. This innovative approach to flood management highlights the ongoing efforts to harmonize human activities with environmental conservation.