Paris’s Eiffel Tower remains closed for a second day following strikes by staff over “monstrous” visitor queues.
Workers at the iconic landmark are unhappy about a new visitor access policy, which they argue has created exceptionally long wait times of up to three hours and “lopsided” queueing systems.
Separate lifts for advanced internet ticket holders and walk-in customers are contributing to congestion, particularly during off-peak periods.
The number of tickets set aside for advanced internet booking has also been increased from 20 to 50 per cent. As a result, lifts for advanced customers are reported to be half-empty during off-peak times, despite walk-in customers waiting for extended periods.
The “Iron Lady” has been closed since Wednesday afternoon as unions try to negotiate with management over a decision to separate pre-booked and walk-in visitors to the site, according to AFP.
Staff have requested more flexibility in managing the thousands of visitors who flock to the tourist attraction every day during this peak summer period.
The site’s operator SETE, which is majority owned by the city of Paris, made the following statement on Wednesday afternoon: “The SETE is well aware of the disappointment for visitors because of the monument’s closure, and its negative impact on the image of both the city and country.”
Visitors' responses were mixed, with frustration and anger combining with resignation. One visitor described the strikes as “an injustice to visitors,” while another was more circumspect, telling France 24: “This has to be the Frenchest story of them all. The Eiffel Tower is on strike.”
This isn’t the first time the tower has closed due to industrial action. Numerous strikes have occurred in recent years over pay, pickpocketing and maintenance work.
Despite this, it continues to be one of the world’s most popular tourist attractions, with more than six million people visiting every year.
Visitors are advised to monitor the Eiffel Tower’s social media pages and website for further updates.
