Tourists eager to experience the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris are met with disappointment as the landmark has been shut down since Monday, 19 February due to an ongoing labour strike.
The closure, driven by workers' demands for fair compensation and improved maintenance, marks the second protest within two months.
SETE, the tower's operator, advises ticket holders to check their website for updates or consider postponing their visit. E-ticket holders should monitor their emails for further information, with reimbursements assured.
Criticism from unions centres around SETE's alleged reliance on inflated future visitor estimates, coupled with underestimated repair costs.
The Eiffel Tower, suffered a €120 million (US$130 million) shortfall during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite a €60 million (US$65 million) recapitalisation, unions argue it falls short of necessary maintenance funding, emphasising the need for a balance between financial demands and the monument's survival.