A cave explorer was swiftly taken to the hospital following an incident where an underground zip wire broke, leading to a perilous situation known as the “chamber of horrors.”
Rescue teams sprang into action after the individual plummeted onto rocks within the renowned “snakes and ladders” cave in the Croesor-Rhosydd complex near Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd. This site features challenging obstacles like the “chamber of horrors” and a perilous “bridge of death” suspended over water.
Concerned colleagues raised the alert upon emerging from the cave, prompting a Coastguard rescue helicopter equipped with a stretcher to rush to the scene after the zip wire malfunctioned during the climber’s attempt to cross the lake.
Known as the “most rescued underground location in North Wales,” the area requires climbers to possess experience and their own gear. Explorers navigate between twin quarries using various means such as ropes, suspension bridges, zip wires, and inflatable boats. It is advised for adventurers to leave their details and schedule with a third party in case of a rescue situation.
The North Wales Cave Rescue Organisation (NWCRO) and the South Snowdonia Search and Rescue Team were summoned to the mine after receiving an alert on a Sunday afternoon. Following an earlier helicopter airlift, team members made their way to Rhosydd to assist the remaining members of the injured party, eventually descending to Tanygrisiau where their vehicles were parked.
A spokesperson from NWCRO mentioned, “We received a notification from NWP that the casualty had managed to exit the cave but required assistance to progress further. The individual was airlifted to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor after being collected by the helicopter from the Rhosydd entrance.”
Despite a decrease in rescue incidents last year, concerns persist over potential tragedies. A local climber expressed apprehensions, stating, “This route seems like a disaster waiting to happen. While I am not in favor of access restrictions, it may only be a matter of time before a recovery operation is needed.”
The Croesor slate mine, which commenced operations in 1846, underwent multiple closures and reopenings throughout its history. Post-World War II, it served as a storage facility for underground explosives. Linked to the nearby Rhosydd quarry via a tunnel, the location remains accessible to cavers.
