Cable car accident in Val Thorens: 17 people involved in a high altitude construction site
This Tuesday, November 19, 2024, a serious accident occurred on the Cime Caron cable car construction site in Val Thorens, at more than 3,000 meters above sea level, in particularly difficult weather conditions.
Around 7:30 a.m., a cabin used for work in progress hit the arrival station, causing dramatic consequences.
The cable car was carrying 16 workers at the time of the accident. In total, 17 people were involved:
2 seriously injuredevacuated by helicopter to hospitals in Chambéry and Grenoble. Fortunately, their vital prognosis is not compromised.
6 lightly injuredtreated in the hospitals of Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, Albertville and Chambéry.
9 other peoplealthough not injured, received psychological support in Val Thorens and Orelle.
An exceptional mobilization of relief
Despite the extreme conditions, more than 120 rescuers quickly mobilized to intervene. The operations were led by firefighters from SDIS 73, with the support of the PGHM, the CRS Alpes, the SAMU, the national gendarmerie, as well as local doctors and first aid trackers.
To clarify the causes of this incident, the Land Transport Accident Investigation Bureau will visit the site tomorrow. At the same time, a judicial investigation was opened by the Albertville public prosecutor’s office.
Support from the authorities
François Ravier, prefect of Savoie, wanted to thank all the teams mobilized for their responsiveness and efficiency in the face of this critical situation. He also praised the commitment of the mayors and municipal teams of the communes of Belleville and Orelle.
This accident highlights the challenges and risks associated with construction sites at altitude, particularly in extreme weather conditions. The results of future investigations will make it possible to understand the precise circumstances of this event and to draw the necessary lessons to strengthen security.
