The Eiffel Tower, the symbol of France, had to close for many days due to a strike.
(Baonghean.vn) - The iconic Eiffel Tower of France has been closed for several consecutive days as employees extend their strike related to the management of this site.
This is the second time in two months that one of the world's most famous tourist destinations has been shut down in protest at what unions say is insufficient investment, AFP reported.
The tower's operator, SETE, has advised those who purchased tickets to the Eiffel Tower to check their website before visiting or postpone their visit. E-ticket holders have also been asked to check their emails for further information. SETE said ticket holders will be refunded.
Trade unions have criticised SETE for basing its business model on what they claim are inflated estimates of future visitor numbers, while underestimating repair and maintenance costs.
The unions also called on the city of Paris to "be reasonable with their financial demands to ensure the survival of the destination and the businesses that operate it".
The Eiffel Tower ran a shortfall of about 120 million euros ($130 million) during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Its operator later received a 60 million euro recapitalization, which unions said was insufficient due to the need for major maintenance work, including a new paint job.
Visitor numbers to the Eiffel Tower fell sharply during Covid-19 due to closures and travel restrictions, but recovered to 5.9 million in 2022 and 6.3 million last year.