Dutch Climber Rescued After 8-Meter Fall in Taiwan

A Dutch national, part of a group of foreign canyoneering instructors, was rescued by helicopter after a serious fall in a remote area of Taitung, Taiwan.

A 27-year-old Dutch canyoneering instructor was rescued in Taitung County, Taiwan, after falling approximately 8 meters (26 feet) while canyoneering on the 22nd. The incident occurred in a remote area, requiring a complex rescue operation involving both ground teams and a helicopter.

The instructor, part of a group with two other foreign instructors, was canyoneering in the Yanping Forest Road area of Taitung. Following the fall, the injured individual was unable to move and sustained suspected injuries to the cervical spine and pelvis. His companions immediately activated a personal locator beacon (PLB), sending out distress signals nine times, while also contacting authorities via family members.

Emergency services, including the Taitung County Fire Department and the National Airborne Service Corps, responded to the distress call. A rescue helicopter was dispatched to the scene. Initial reports indicated the man was conscious but suffering from severe pain, likely due to a fractured hip.

The rescue team successfully airlifted the Dutch instructor to Fengnian Airport, where he was transported to a hospital for treatment. The rescue operation highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness and swift response in challenging terrain. His companions were a man and a woman from Australia.