In a well-coordinated multi-disciplinary operation, teams from Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) and various emergency services came together to assist 75 tourists on the Platteklip Gorge hiking trail following a fire that prompted the closure of the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway around 1pm yesterday, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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As the situation unfolded, the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS Drone Unit deployed a high-tech drone to monitor foot traffic along the trail.
This aerial surveillance allowed rescue teams, including SANParks Table Mountain National Park rangers, to quickly identify individuals in need of assistance.
Throughout the afternoon, rescuers responded to three separate incidents involving exhausted and injured hikers.
Two visitors struggling to descend were aided by teams, while a 45-year-old Dutch tourist who injured her lower leg was airlifted from the mountainside by the Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter.
The operation concluded around 7:30pm after teams conducted a thorough search of the trail to ensure all hikers were safely off the mountain.
David Nel, spokesperson for WSAR, emphasised the importance of collaboration during such incidents, stating, ‘Events like these necessitate large multi-disciplinary teams and meticulous coordination, showcasing the depth of expertise within Wilderness Search And Rescue and our capability to handle wilderness emergencies.’
WSAR operates in partnership with several agencies and volunteer organisations, including:
‘We take pride in collaborating with our peers across various emergency services and are grateful to everyone who contributed to the successful rescue effort,’ Nel added.
‘I’m sure some visitors left with more than they expected from our beautiful mountain. We wish them all a swift recovery.’
The South African National Parks (SANParks) informs the public that the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway at Table Mountain National Park will be closed today until further notice as we evaluate the damage from yesterday’s fire.
However, all hiking trails within the park are still open.
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Picture: Screenshot of video / WC Live Traffic & Safety Reports / Facebook
