At least eight workers were injured, two seriously, in a cable car accident early Tuesday, November 19, at the renowned ski resort of Val Thorens in the French Alps.
Authorities confirmed that none of the injuries are life-threatening. The incident occurred just days before the resort’s scheduled winter season opening on November 23.
The accident took place at approximately 7:30 a.m. amid challenging weather conditions at an altitude above 3,000 meters.
According to a statement from the Savoie prefecture, a cabin of the Cime Caron cable car, used for construction purposes, collided with the arrival station while transporting 16 workers.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
Emergency responders, including firefighters, paramedics, ski patrollers, and high-mountain rescue teams, quickly mobilized to the site.
The injured workers were evacuated using a nearby gondola. The Savoie prefecture activated a crisis management cell and implemented a “mass casualty plan” to coordinate the rescue and treatment of those affected.
François Ravier, the prefect for the Savoy region, confirmed that the injured were transported to hospitals in Annecy and Grenoble for further medical care.
“It is too early to determine the exact circumstances that led to this accident,” Ravier stated, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. Authorities have yet to disclose details about the cause of the collision, pending the results of a preliminary inquiry.
Val Thorens: A Premier Ski Destination
Val Thorens, situated at an altitude of 2,300 to 3,200 meters, is celebrated as one of the highest ski resorts in the French Alps.
Known for its reliable snow cover, it draws skiers from across Europe and beyond, particularly as climate change increasingly impacts lower-altitude ski destinations.
The resort is part of the prestigious 3 Vallées network, which includes Courchevel and Méribel, attracting a mix of avid skiers and affluent visitors.
The Cime Caron cable car, a prominent feature of the resort, has a storied history. At the time of its construction in 1982, it was the longest cable car in the world.
It remains a key infrastructure component, providing access to breathtaking alpine vistas and vital transport for resort operations.
Implications for the Winter Season
The accident casts a shadow over the resort’s preparations for the highly anticipated winter season. Val Thorens is scheduled to officially open its slopes on November 23, welcoming thousands of visitors eager to kick off the skiing season.
The incident raises questions about safety protocols and maintenance of key infrastructure as the resort braces for its peak period.
Local authorities and resort management are working to ensure that the incident does not impact the opening or safety of operations. “Safety remains our top priority,” a resort spokesperson said, expressing their support for the injured workers and their families.
An investigation is underway to ascertain the cause of the accident and to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Meanwhile, the resort’s management and local officials are coordinating closely to resume preparations for the winter season while addressing the aftermath of the incident.
