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A devastating gondola accident in the Spanish Pyrenees has left at least 30 injured, including nine in critical condition and eight in serious condition. The incident took place in the ski resort of Astún, near the French border.
According to reports from local authorities, the accident took place on one of the resort’s cable cars. Witnesses described the event as a sudden and chaotic failure of the lift system. “It’s as if a cable had fallen,” a witness told Spanish public broadcaster TVE. “The seats bounced and people were thrown out of the cabins. »
To make the situation worse, around 80 people are still believed to be stuck in the gondolas. Rescue operations are underway to safely evacuate trapped people.
Cause of incident still unknown
The exact cause of the cable car failure remains unclear. Authorities and technical teams are investigating the incident to determine what caused the collapse. In the meantime, the area around the gondola has been cordoned off to ensure public safety.
Images and videos circulating on social media show the terrible consequences, with people injured on the ground near the cable car. In some footage, a helicopter can be seen landing at the site, presumably to assist with emergency evacuation and transport the injured to medical facilities.
Reaction of the authorities
The incident sparked swift reactions from regional and national leaders. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his shock and expressed his support to the victims and their families. “I am shocked by the news of the accident,” Sánchez said. “All our affection goes to the injured and their loved ones. »
-Jorge Azcón, President of the Government of Aragon, was quickly informed of the tragedy and traveled to the site to supervise relief and recovery operations. The Prime Minister confirmed that he had spoken with Mr Azcón to offer the full support of the Spanish government in managing the crisis.
In addition, an emergency telephone line has been set up for families seeking information on those affected by the accident.
Emergency response in progress
The regional government deployed emergency services to the scene, including medical and search and rescue teams. Seriously injured people were prioritized for evacuation, with the use of helicopters to transport critical cases to nearby hospitals.
The tragic incident has raised questions about safety protocols and maintenance standards for gondolas, particularly at popular resorts like Astún, which attract thousands of visitors during the peak winter season.
As rescue operations continue and investigators work to uncover the cause of the incident, the focus remains on providing care and support to victims and their families.
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