Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — A group of 25 hikers on Mount Penanggungan in Trawas District, East Java, was evacuated during the 79th Independence Day celebration of the Republic of Indonesia. The hikers faced various health issues, including exhaustion, sprained ankles, and head injuries.
Mount Penanggungan has long been a popular destination for hikers during Independence Day celebrations. This year, the mountain’s summit, standing at 1,653 meters, was once again crowded with thousands of hikers eager to mark the historic occasion on Saturday, August 17, 2024.
As part of the ceremony, a 1,000-meter-long Indonesian flag was unfurled at the peak of Mount Penanggungan, witnessed by thousands of participants.
However, the high enthusiasm of the hikers turned 1into disaster while many encountered physical and health challenges, necessitating their evacuation by rescue teams. Fortunately, a combined team of rescuers has been stationed at key posts since the night of August 16 to anticipate such incidents.
“Approximately 25 hikers were evacuated by August 17,” said Nur Aini, the coordinator of the Mount Penanggungan Search and Rescue (SAR) Team, on Monday, August 19 2024.
The hikers were evacuated via the Tamiajeng route, the most popular trail on the mountain. Rescue teams conducted a relay-style evacuation from post to post, continuously monitoring the hikers’ health conditions.
A lack of awareness regarding safety measures during the hike was cited as a contributing factor to the injuries sustained by many hikers. Despite this, Nur Aini confirmed that no serious injuries were reported.
“Thankfully, no one was seriously injured,” she added.
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The evacuation involved dozens of volunteers from various organizations, including the Disaster and Climate Change Management Agency of Nahdlatul Ulama (LPBI NU). At least five hikers with various health issues were successfully rescued by the LPBI NU team, according to Syaiful Anam, Chairman of LPBI NU Mojokerto.
“Some hikers were exhausted, others had sprained ankles from descending the trail, and a few sustained head injuries from falls,” Syaiful explained.
Some hikers were also evacuated due to pre-existing health conditions, such as post-surgery complications or severe hunger.
Syaiful Anam emphasized the importance of thorough physical preparation before going on a hike, including carrying essential personal gear like jackets, sturdy shoes, and medications.
“Additionally, when descending the mountain, it’s important to walk carefully and avoid running, as this often leads to injuries,” he advised.
(Raidi/Agung)
