Nationwide strike hits France, access to Eiffel Tower blocked

National strikes against price hikes and proposed pension reforms prevented tourists from visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris on Thursday, according to the operating company.

The company said it apologised for the inconvenience and informed customers who purchased tickets online via email.

The business mentioned that the most well-known landmark in Paris’ forecourt was still open and available without charge.

On a typical day, over 20,000 people visit the Eiffel Tower.

The strikes on Thursday also targeted public transportation and schools, though there were few restrictions on the city’s metro system.

However, disruptions were expected for buses and suburban trains, as well as regional restrictions to rail traffic.

France often sees nationwide protests in the autumn concerning social issues.

However, thanks to billions in aid and an energy price cap, inflation in France is far lower than in other European countries.

Planned pension reforms to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64 or 65 are still highly controversial in the country.

The trade unions and the opposition are divided in their protest against the government at the moment.

While the trade unions were demonstrating on Thursday, the Left Party, Socialists and Greens called for a march against the expensive living and doing nothing in the climate crisis on Oct. 16.

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