31 Mount Bawakaraeng Climbers Evacuated Due to Hypothermia and Leg Injuries
A total of 31 climbers were evacuated from Mount Bawakaraeng, Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi, while celebrating Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day. The majority of the climbers experienced health problems or physical difficulties.
“As of this morning, 31 climbers have experienced trouble and have received treatment from the SAR team. The majority suffered from hypothermia, asthma, exhaustion, and leg injuries,” said Muhammad Arif Anwar, Head of the Makassar Class A Search and Rescue Office (Basarnas), to reporters.
Arif said most of the climbers had been evacuated to the Bulu Balea Post to receive medical treatment. One other climber was still in the process of being evacuated from around Post 7 on the Lembanna route.
“At present there is still one climber whom we are evacuating because he fell after tripping on a stone while walking. His condition involves a fairly serious knee injury around Post 7 on the Lembanna route,” said Arif.
The SAR team had to take into account the steep terrain conditions during the evacuation process. After arriving at the post, the climbers would be given medical treatment and would be referred to the nearest health facility.
“We are continuing to carry out treatment in stages. Climbers who have been evacuated are receiving medical treatment at the post, and several have been referred to the Tinggimoncong Community Health Centre according to their condition,” Arif explained.
At present, 295 joint SAR personnel remain on standby at eight strategic points, including Ramma Valley and the summit of Bawakaraeng. Arif urged climbers to prioritise safety during the descent and not to push themselves.
“We urge climbers to look after one another, especially if a group member begins to tire. Do not push yourselves and report immediately to the nearest standby post if you need help,” he added.
Basarnas Makassar recorded 3,786 climbers on Mount Bawakaraeng based on data compiled up to Monday afternoon. The thousands of climbers entered through various routes, with the largest number passing through the Bulu Balea Registration Post at 2,033 people.
“Data up to this afternoon shows a total of 3,786 climbers who registered. The breakdown is 2,033 people through Bulu Balea, 1,081 through Tassoso, 422 through Kanreapia, and 250 through Lembanna,” said Arif.