Another incident involving a hiker falling from a dangerous section of a popular Table Mountain trail has prompted a call for caution and awareness among outdoor enthusiasts.
The latest incident, which occurred on Thursday, 13 September 2023, saw a 64-year-old hiker tumble 15 metres from the contour path located between the Platteklip Gorge and India Venster hiking trails on Table Mountain.
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The hiker, accompanied by family members, attempted to traverse the narrow portion of the contour path when she lost her footing and descended down a waterfall.
Quick-thinking family members immediately dialled the emergency number (021 937 0300), alerting authorities to the situation.
Responding promptly, a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers from Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) rushed to Tafelberg Road to render assistance.
Upon reaching the fallen hiker, they provided immediate medical attention and secured her onto a stretcher.
A specialised team from the Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness EMS/Air Mercy Service (AMS) rescue helicopter was deployed to the scene, where they were lowered to a point near the injured hiker.
Using a technical rope system, ground teams meticulously manoeuvred the injured individual out of the narrow gully. Once she was safely out of harm’s way, the rescue team hoisted her up into the awaiting helicopter.
The injured hiker was then airlifted to a nearby landing zone before being transported to the hospital via ambulance.
The rescue operation was concluded by 2:50pm.
David Nel, a spokesperson for Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR), expressed concerns about this particular section of the contour path, located just above the waterfall. He noted that it has gained notoriety for several serious incidents, with ten recorded cases in total.
Among these, two individuals sustained serious injuries, while five were critically injured after falling from the same spot. Three fatalities were also recorded at the same location.
Nel issued an appeal to all outdoor enthusiasts, urging them to exercise the utmost caution when navigating this treacherous portion of the contour path. He concluded by extending well wishes for a full recovery to the injured hiker.
‘We appeal to all outdoor enthusiasts to exercise extreme caution when crossing this section of the contour path. We wish the patient a full recovery,’ Nel said.
In light of such incidents, it is imperative to save and share the emergency contact number 021 937 0300 and consider supporting the invaluable work of Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) by visiting their website at wsar.org.za.
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Picture: Wilderness Search And Rescue WSAR Western Cape / Travis Talmarkes