Battagram, 22 Aug, 2023 (GNP): A challenging situation happened today in the Allai Tehsil region of Battagram, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as a cable car with eight passengers, including six schoolchildren and two teachers, was left stranded mid-air due to a cable breakage. The incident occurred during the chairlift’s journey across a deep valley in a remote mountainous area.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) swiftly initiated a coordinated response to address the situation. Immediate efforts have been taken to ensure the safety and rescue of the stranded passengers. The Pakistan Army’s assistance has been sought, and a helicopter rescue operation is currently in progress to retrieve the passengers from the perilous situation.
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According to Abdul Basit Khan, a senior official for the provincial rescue agency, the chairlift was suspended by a single rope, and the passengers were trapped at a height of approximately 900 to 1,500 feet above the ground. The passengers, which included six school children and two adults, were reportedly using the chairlift as a means to commute to their respective destinations, highlighting its vital role in the local community.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of safe rescue and evacuation for those stuck in the cable car. He directed both NDMA and PDMA to prioritize the rescue operation and ensure the well-being of the passengers.
The chairlift accident in Battagram, KP is really alarming. I have directed the NDMA, PDMA and district authorities to urgently ensure safe rescue and evacuation of the 8 people stuck in the chairlift.
I have also directed the authorities to conduct safety inspections of all such…— Anwaar ul Haq Kakar (@anwaar_kakar) August 22, 2023
The incident portrays the challenges faced by communities in remote and mountainous regions and the critical role that coordinated emergency response efforts play in such situations.