Mountain rescue operations in Hualien have been increasing year by year, not only overburdening rescue personnel but also leaving taxpayers to foot the bill. Today, the Hualien County Government drafted a “Mountain Activities Management Self-Governance Ordinance.”
Mountain rescue operations in Hualien have been increasing year by year, not only overburdening rescue personnel but also leaving taxpayers to foot the bill. Today, the Hualien County Government drafted the “Mountain Activities Management Self-Governance Ordinance.”
According to statistics from the Hualien County Fire Bureau, there were 42 mountain rescue incidents in Hualien last year, 3.5 times higher than five years ago. When air rescue helicopters are deployed in mountainous areas, the average fuel cost for a round trip is about NT$1.2 million, not including overtime pay, insurance fees for ground rescue personnel, or subsequent medical expenses. The longer the rescue operation lasts, the higher the fuel and labor costs. For example, during the recent Erzi Mountain incident, which lasted 17 days, over 400 personnel were deployed, with fuel costs amounting to approximately NT$21.6 million.
The Hualien County Fire Bureau stated that to reduce the occurrence of mountain accidents and lower rescue costs, the “Hualien County Mountain Activities Management Self-Governance Ordinance” has been formulated, comprising 16 regulations. These include requiring hikers to follow planned routes in county-designated controlled mountain areas, carry GPS devices, be led by certified guides, and purchase comprehensive mountain insurance.
Lin Wen-ruey, Director of the Hualien County Fire Bureau, said that once the ordinance takes effect, violators such as those without insurance or entering mountains during typhoons may face fines ranging from NT$10,000 to NT$50,000. Individuals who cause rescue situations due to their violations will be held responsible for all associated rescue costs. The ordinance was submitted to the council today, with review expected in April, and implementation to follow upon approval. 1060327
(Central News Agency)