At least eight workers were injured, two of them seriously, after a cable car accident at the renowned French ski resort of Val Thorens this past Tuesday morning, authorities reported. Fortunately, none of the injuries are deemed life-threatening.
The incident unfolded around 7:30 AM, under challenging weather conditions, at altitudes surpassing 3,000 meters (over 9,800 feet). According to information from the Savoie prefecture, the cable car, part of the Cime Caron system, was transporting 16 workers at the time of the mishap.
A cabin from the cable car struck the arrival station as it was approaching, leading to the injuries. Emergency responders were on the scene swiftly, deploying firefighters, paramedics, ski patrol officers, and mountain rescue teams to evacuate the victims using another gondola.
François Ravier, the prefect for the Savoy region, indicated the injured workers were taken to hospitals located in Annecy and Grenoble. He refrained from sharing specific details about the accident's cause, stating, “It is too early to know the exact circumstances.” Ravier added, “We will have to wait for the preliminary results of the investigation.”
The ski resort of Val Thorens is known for its high altitude and reliable snow conditions, with slopes stretching 150 kilometers (around 93 miles) at elevations between 2,300 meters and 3,200 meters. It’s part of the 3 Vallées area, famed for skiing, which includes other popular resorts like Courchevel and Méribel.
This incident occurred just four days before Val Thorens was set to officially open for the winter season on November 23, making the accident particularly notable for the local skiing community and resort operators.
Val Thorens boasts the accolade of having the longest cable car system—once the longest in the world—when it was constructed back in 1982, according to the resort's own promotional materials.
With the winter season approaching, safety at ski resorts has become a central focus for authorities and local stakeholders, especially considering the potential for accidents during peak times. The French ski enterprise environment is known for its rigorous skiing culture, attracting visitors from across Europe and beyond, underscored by the excitement and risks associated with mountainous terrains.
This cable car mishap highlights the importance of stringent safety measures and contingency planning as winter sports enthusiasts prepare to hit the slopes. While investigations continue to discern the precise reasons behind this unfortunate event, the hope remains for the swift recovery of the injured workers.
