Rescue Efforts Intensify for Brazilian Tourist Missing on Mount Rinjani

Published

on

REading time

1–2 minutes

Local sources from Indonesia: CNN Indonesia, detikTravel.
UK coverage: BBC.

A rescue operation is underway for Juliana Marins, a Brazilian tourist who went missing on Mount Rinjani in Indonesia. The incident began on Saturday when Marins fell while hiking, igniting a complex rescue mission in the rugged terrain of one of Indonesia’s most famous volcanoes. Despite the challenges posed by the terrain and adverse weather conditions, hopes were reignited on Monday when rescuers, aided by drone technology, located her for the second time since the accident occurred. The concerted efforts involve a joint Search and Rescue (SAR) team, utilizing advanced drone thermal imaging to pinpoint Marins’ location approximately 500 meters from where she initially fell near the Cemara Tunggal area on her path to Rinjani’s summit. The victim is believed to have descended towards the Segara Anak cliffs following a sudden change in weather, making the rescue operation even more perilous. The terrain, consisting of sand and rocks, coupled with the extreme and foggy weather conditions, has significantly hampered evacuation efforts. A helicopter evacuation is being considered, with involvement from various agencies including the National SAR Agency, the Mount Rinjani National Park Office, military, police, regional disaster management agencies, and local volunteers. Marins’ family has been vocal about their concerns, criticizing the decision to keep the park open and tirelessly working to ensure her safe return. They have established a dedicated Instagram account to garner support and have reached out to the Brazilian Embassy in Jakarta and the hiking organization responsible for the expedition. The family’s plea underscores the urgency of the situation, highlighting that Marins has been without food, water, or warm clothing for several days. Park officials have defended their decision to keep the park open, stating that it does not affect the ongoing rescue operations. As the mission resumes, the international community watches closely, hoping for Marins’ safe return. This incident raises questions about safety measures and protocols in popular hiking destinations, underscoring the need for preparedness and swift response in times of emergency.