Dozens rescued after being stranded overnight in world’s highest Cable Car systems due to technical glitch

In Ecuador's capital city of Quito, a technical glitch in one of the world's highest tourist cable cars left dozens of people trapped overnight. The gondola system came to a halt, stranding approximately 75 visitors in the cabins.

The municipality of Quito confirmed that all 75 individuals were safely brought to the ground after an extensive operation involving firefighters and the police. The rescue operation lasted nearly 10 hours as authorities worked diligently to address the electrical problem that paralyzed the system.

Among those trapped, 48 individuals were located at the uppermost terminal, situated at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters (13,120 feet). They were successfully rescued and brought to safety by the rescue teams.


Furthermore, 17 people were rescued from the gondolas that were stuck on the cable line. The remaining 10 individuals were able to reach the ground once the system resumed operation.

Video footage shared on the municipality's Twitter account captured the dramatic scenes of the rescue operation. People were seen being abseiled down from the gondolas to ensure their safe descent. Other passengers, including children, emerged from their cabins wrapped in emergency blankets as their cabins made a successful return to the ground.

The Quito Cable Car, also known as the Telefériqo, stands as one of the highest cable cars in South America, reaching an altitude of over 3,947 meters (12,950 feet) above sea level, as stated on its official website. The cable car journey covers a distance of more than 2,500 meters (about 1.55 miles) and takes approximately 18 minutes. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Quito cityscape and the surrounding mountains throughout the ride.

FAQs

Q1:Where is the longest cable car in the world?
The Vinpearl Cable Car, spanning a length of 3,320 meters, serves as a gondola lift connecting Hon Tre Island to Nha Trang in Vietnam. Renowned as the longest cable car route traversing the sea, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.

Q2:How long is the cable car ride in Quito?
The ascent via cable car is enjoyable and takes approximately 20 minutes. During the ride you can enjoy the excellent view.