Trapped for Hours Amidst Heightened Holiday Crowds
温州, China - Visitors to Yandangshan Mountain in China were left terrified after becoming trapped on a sheer cliff face for hours due to extreme overcrowding during the recent Labor Day holiday.
A video posted online by a hiker on Yandangshan Mountain in Wenzhou City, Zhejiang Province, eastern China, showed a vast crowd of hikers frozen in place on a steep mountainside. With sheer cliffs rising above and a treacherous drop below, the situation was perilous.
"We were 'stuck' and couldn't move forward or backward," the hiker narrated. "There were also children who could be in danger at any moment."
The video captured the distress of some hikers who were visibly scared and tearful at being stranded.
Rescue Available, but at a Cost
Following the incident's circulation online, Xu Jian, a management official for the Yandangshan Tourist Area, responded, stating that hikers are well monitored and safety is ensured.
"In general, the number of tourists increases significantly during the holidays," he said. "Some hikers who move slowly or stop for photos can lead to congestion in scenic spots with limited capacity."
Xu Jian added that if hikers are apprehensive during their ascent, they can request assistance from the on-site rescue team at a cost of 300 yuan (approximately $46) per person. "Previously, rescues were free, but due to some climbers calling for help without any real problems, a fee has now been implemented."
The official clarified that there are three main routes for hikers to ascend Yandangshan. Route A is approximately 1,300 feet long and is challenging, typically taking about 90 minutes to complete. Route C offers the shortest and easiest path, suitable for seniors and children. The "mountain gridlock" that was captured and shared online occurred on Route B.
"The time it takes to complete the routes varies depending on the individual's physical fitness," Xu Jian explained. "But in general, the average completion time for each route has doubled during the recent holiday period."
Online Debate Sparked by Incident
The incident has ignited a heated debate among Chinese netizens.
"Just watching the video gives me the chills," one user remarked. "I wouldn't do this for money, let alone pay to experience something so risky."
Regarding the 300-yuan rescue fee, some netizens expressed that it was "not expensive at all" because it could "potentially save lives."
However, others argued that the scenic spot was responsible for ensuring the safety of visitors and preventing such situations from occurring.
Summary
Amidst the high volume of holiday travelers, Yandangshan Mountain in China experienced severe overcrowding, resulting in hikers becoming trapped on a sheer cliff face for hours. While rescues are available, they come at a cost, sparking a debate about responsibility and safety measures in tourist areas.