Skiers airlifted to safety after chairlift failure in the Alps
In Le Dévoluy, France, a chairlift malfunction occurred, necessitating the evacuation of 240 skiers by helicopter.
On Tuesday, 24th December, in the high Alps, the Festoure chairlift broke down due to an electrical issue. According to BFMTV, 240 people were on the lift at the time.
A rescue operation was promptly organized, with rescuers and lift staff arriving at the scene to assist the stranded skiers.
- The evacuation is almost complete. A few people remain on the lift - reported Alexandra Butel, the mayor of Dévoluy, in an interview with BFMTV.
Help for the evacuated
The authorities have assured that there is no threat to the skiers.
"The weather conditions are favourable and should not change," stated a communiqué. The evacuation was conducted using a helicopter, with gendarmes, firefighters, and rescue services participating.
- This rarely happens; it is an exceptional situation for us - admitted the mayor of Dévoluy. The local authorities have organised aid for the evacuated individuals.
