Tragic Collapse of Ski Lift at Spanish Resort Leaves Dozens Injured
A devastating incident unfolded at the Astun ski resort in Aragon, Spain, where a ski lift collapsed, resulting in injuries to numerous individuals. According to regional government officials, nine people are reported to be in very serious condition, while eight others are facing serious injuries. Approximately 80 skiers found themselves trapped, suspended in the air as the incident occurred.
Eyewitness accounts describe a harrowing scene, with reports indicating that a cable may have disconnected, resulting in chairs bouncing and people being thrown off the lift. The exact cause of the cable failure remains under investigation, prompting numerous questions about the safety protocols in place at the resort. The management of the ski area has not issued a statement and has yet to confirm whether any foreign nationals were among those injured.
In response to the unfolding crisis, a significant rescue operation was mobilized, involving the deployment of helicopters to assist in retrieving skiers still trapped in the chairlift and transporting those injured to nearby hospitals.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his shock at the incident, extending his sympathies to the injured and their families through a post on X, where he stated, 'All our affection to the injured and their families.'
The Astun ski resort, which primarily attracts Spanish skiers, is located near the border with France in the picturesque Pyrenees mountain range, a region known for its popular winter sports activities. As authorities work to ensure the safety of those rescued, this unfortunate event raises critical questions about ski resort management and safety measures that must be in place to prevent such disasters in the future.
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