A tragic cable car mishap in southern Turkey results in one fatality and several injuries, with rescue operations underway for 184 stranded passengers
A catastrophic incident occurred in Antalya, Turkey, where a cable car accident resulted in one death and several injuries while leaving numerous passengers stranded. The accident took place on the slopes of Tunektepe Peak, a popular tourist destination, particularly crowded during the end of the Ramadan holidays.
On Friday, April 12, 2024, a cable car pod collided with a support pole and was severely damaged, leading to passengers falling to the mountainside below. The impact of the collision disrupted the entire cable car system, resulting in 184 passengers being trapped in 25 different cabins along the cable route.
Muhittin Böcek, the Mayor of Antalya, confirmed the ongoing rescue efforts to safely evacuate all stranded individuals. “We are utilizing rope systems and night-vision helicopters to expedite the rescue operations,” Böcek stated, expressing hope for the safe recovery of all those affected.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya elaborated on the rescue mission, noting that it involved over 160 first responders, including aircrews from the Coast Guard and mountaineering teams. “Five of the injured have been airlifted from the site, and we are working diligently to secure the remaining two,” Yerlikaya shared on the social media platform X.
The incident coincided with the last day of a three-day public holiday in Turkey, which marks the conclusion of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. This period typically sees increased travel to coastal areas like Antalya, where families gather to celebrate and enjoy the scenic views from attractions like the Tunektepe cable car.
The cable car route, known for connecting Konyaalti Beach to a restaurant and viewing platform at the summit of the 618-meter peak, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a favoured spot among tourists and locals alike.
As the community reels from this tragic event, the focus remains on the ongoing rescue operations and the investigation into the cause of the accident to prevent future occurrences.
