Swiss climber Benedikt Emmenegger, 46, was descending the mountain when he fell.
UPDATE: A Swiss climber, Benedikt Emmenegger, has fallen on Mount Rinjani in Indonesia, sparking immediate rescue efforts just weeks after a tragic incident claimed the life of a young Brazilian woman. The fall occurred at approximately 11:25 AM local time on Tuesday as Emmenegger was descending the treacherous terrain alongside his daughter and a local porter.
This latest incident raises urgent safety concerns about the 3,700-meter active volcano, which has gained notoriety for its dangerous trails. Emmenegger slipped on a steep slope, leaving him stranded and unable to move, reminiscent of the fate suffered by Juliana Marins, the Brazilian tourist who tragically died in June after falling into a ravine.
Yarman, the head of Mount Rinjani National Park, confirmed that rescue teams quickly mobilized to provide assistance. “We, along with the medical team, have already moved to provide assistance,” he stated. Dramatic footage shows Emmenegger lying on a mat wrapped in a thermal blanket, with his daughter by his side, as first aid was administered at the scene.
Rescue teams successfully prepared a helicopter for evacuation, with Yarman adding, “The helicopter has been prepared and has flown to the evacuation point. Hopefully, the weather cooperates.” While authorities have not confirmed the extent of Emmenegger’s injuries, his survival offers a glimmer of hope amid the recent tragedy.
Emmenegger was reportedly attempting to reach the volcano’s renowned sulphur lake, Segara Anak, via a notoriously hazardous route, particularly risky during humid or rainy conditions. Mount Rinjani, located on the island of Lombok, attracts tourists despite its deadly reputation, amplifying calls for improved safety measures.
The previous incident involving Marins was marred by accusations of negligence, as her family claimed that the rescue operations failed to respond adequately. After falling 500 meters into a ravine, Marins was spotted alive by a drone, but difficult weather and terrain delayed the rescue, leading to her untimely death.
As rescue teams continue their efforts for Emmenegger, the focus remains on the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols on Mount Rinjani, ensuring that future hikers can navigate its perilous paths without fear. Authorities are now closely monitoring the situation, and updates will follow as details emerge.
