Expert Caving Instructor Rescued After Serious Fall in Italian Cave
A significant rescue operation is currently in progress northeast of Bergamo, Italy, to save Ottavia Piana, a 32-year-old caving instructor who became trapped while exploring the Bueno Fonteno cave system. Known for her expertise in spelunking, Piana suffered injuries after falling approximately 5 meters (16 feet) during a Saturday evening expedition with eight other cavers, as they worked to map an uncharted section of the cave.
The alarm was raised by her team after she fell, and rescuers, who confirmed that she was alert and responsive, reached her late on Sunday at a depth of 585 meters. Utilizing small explosives, they navigated the challenging terrain to get to her; however, they encountered a significant obstacle: a narrow segment of tunnel, roughly 100 meters long, which was too tight to accommodate a stretcher. As a result, rescuers are focused on widening this part of the tunnel, but the operation is fraught with difficulties due to the cave's depth and the incomplete geomorphological mapping of the area.
Compounding the challenge is the condition of the stretcher on which Piana is placed, as she sustained fractures from her fall. Rescuers are required to pause periodically to assess her condition, but according to Mauro Guiducci, the deputy of the national Alpine Rescue, Piana is conscious and showing signs of recovery, both physically and mentally.
"One thing is certain, these kinds of operations are very long," Guiducci remarked. Approximately 100 rescuers are currently on site, working in shifts, with a maximum of 20 individuals operating in the confined spaces of the cave at a time.
It’s worth noting that Piana is no stranger to perilous situations in this cave. She previously became trapped in the same location last year, where she spent two days at a depth of 150 meters with a broken leg. Following her recent fall, a doctor assisting her stated that she is contemplating retiring from caving altogether.
The Bueno Fonteno Abyss, located in the Western Sebino karst area, is a complex labyrinth of tunnels and caves, presenting a formidable challenge even to the most seasoned spelunkers. This incident underscores the inherent risks associated with cave exploration, particularly in areas as intricate and unpredictable as this one.
The ongoing rescue operation exemplifies the dedication and bravery of rescue teams working tirelessly to ensure Piana's safe return.
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