West Manggarai Regent apologises for Austrian tourists' deaths at Cunca Wulang waterfall

West Manggarai Regent Edistasius Endi has expressed deep regret and apology over the deaths of two Austrian tourists, Jurgen (54) and Astrid (56), following the collapse of a suspension bridge platform at Cunca Wulang waterfall tourist attraction on Sunday (24 May). The tragic incident at one of West Manggarai’s premier natural tourist destinations has prompted serious concern from local authorities.Both tourists reportedly fell after the wooden platform they were crossing suddenly gave way.

‘On behalf of the West Manggarai regency government, we convey our deepest condolences and apologise for the incident that resulted in the loss of two tourists,’ Edi told Kompas.com on Thursday (28 May).

Edi stated that the Cunca Wulang tragedy serves as a critical warning for the local government to conduct a comprehensive safety audit of all tourist destinations in West Manggarai. He emphasised that authorities are determined to prevent such incidents from recurring, especially as West Manggarai is known as one of Indonesia’s leading tourist destinations with steadily increasing visitor numbers.

’ Evaluations will not only take place at Cunca Wulang but across all tourist sites. We aim to ensure all safety protocols and operational standards are fully implemented,’ he said.

The local government also promises stricter oversight of vulnerable tourist facilities, including suspension bridges, hiking trails, protective barriers, and emergency evacuation procedures.

Edi acknowledged that the suspension bridge at the scene appeared structurally sound on surface inspection. However, post-incident examination revealed discrepancies between external appearance and internal structural integrity.

’ The exterior and actual condition were different. Therefore, assessments cannot solely rely on surface-level checks but must inspect the underlying structure,’ he added.

The tragedy has reignited scrutiny over safety measures at natural tourist sites in West Manggarai, particularly amid intensified promotion of Labuan Bajo as a national priority tourism destination. Critics argue that while increasing tourist numbers is important, the government must ensure all tourist infrastructure meets safety standards to protect visitors.