An accident involving a cable car in the Piedmont region, in northern Italy, left at least six people injured and around 100 tourists temporarily trapped on the mountain this Tuesday (30). The accident occurred near the village of Macugnaga, in the Italian Alps, when two cabins collided with the structures of the system’s upper and lower stations, according to information from local authorities.
According to the Italian Fire Department, the accident happened at around 11:25 am (local time), while the cabins were approaching the stations. Following the impact, the cable car was immediately suspended and the ski slopes in the region were closed as a precaution.
According to local rescue authorities, helicopters were mobilized to evacuate around 100 people who were trapped at the top of the mountain. The evacuation took approximately three hours and involved mainly tourists visiting the area. The cable car system where the accident occurred connects the village of Macugnaga to the highest areas of the alpine complex.
The cable car system in question was inaugurated in 1962 and underwent extensive modernization in 2023. According to the operating company, the renovation included the complete replacement of engines and cabins, with an investment estimated at around 2 million euros.
Authorities reported that the equipment involved in the accident did not suffer significant structural damage, but will remain closed for technical inspections.
