Lombok. A Belgian national, De Vuyst Anke, 28, slipped while climbing Mount Rinjani on Saturday. De Vuyst was reported to have fallen while descending towards Segara Anak Lake.

The Head of Search, Rescue, and Evacuation at the Mount Rinjani National Park (BTNGR), I Gede Mustika, explained that the victim slipped, sustaining abrasions on her thigh and pain in her waist. The evacuation process was carried out the following day due to weather considerations and team safety.

The BTNGR team, along with medical personnel, immediately provided first aid at an emergency shelter before eventually evacuating the victim on a stretcher to Sembalun.

“The victim only suffered abrasions on her thigh and was briefly in shock. This morning, she was brought down to the emergency shelter in Sembalun for further treatment. Last night, the victim had to stay at the emergency shelter because nighttime evacuation was not possible,” said Gede Mustika on Wednesday.

Based on information, the victim had been hiking with 12 companions accompanied by five local guides. They started their journey from the Sembalun route on Saturday morning toward Segara Anak Lake. However, while descending the Pelawangan trail, the victim was believed to have been careless and slipped on the steep slope.

Her companions immediately reported the incident to BTNGR authorities. Medical teams and hiking volunteers then headed to the location to provide initial treatment before the evacuation took place the next day.

Reportedly, weather conditions along the Mount Rinjani hiking trails have been unpredictable lately. Rain accompanied by fog often descends suddenly, making the trails slippery and dangerous. The evacuation process also took a long time due to the slippery and steep path. The victim arrived in Sembalun around 11:00 local time after being carried on a stretcher from the emergency shelter.

“Given the unstable weather conditions, we urge all hikers to be more cautious. The trail to Segara Anak, especially the descent from Pelawangan Sembalun, is very prone to accidents when it rains,” emphasized Gede.

He added that this incident is a reminder that safety must be the top priority. Hikers are advised to follow their guides’ instructions, pay attention to their physical condition, and carry standard safety equipment.

After receiving treatment at the emergency shelter, the victim’s condition was reported as stable. She was able to communicate well and only sustained minor injuries. The medical team confirmed that there were no serious injuries endangering her life.

Currently, the victim is in Sembalun for further recovery. The travel agency accompanying the victim and her group will coordinate with local authorities regarding the continuation of their tour in Lombok.

Gede Mustika once again stressed the importance of preparation before climbing Rinjani. Hikers are urged to bring sufficient equipment, monitor weather forecasts, pay attention to their physical condition, and avoid pushing themselves if conditions are unfavorable.

“Mount Rinjani is indeed beautiful, but the trail is challenging. Do not underestimate the weather and physical factors. It is better to postpone the journey than to take unnecessary risks,” he concluded.

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