An Australian woman has tragically died in Japan after becoming caught in a ski lift at a popular snow resort located west of Tokyo. The fatal incident occurred at the Tsugaike Mountain Resort in Otari, within Nagano Prefecture, casting a shadow over what should have been a winter holiday adventure.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The woman was using the ski lift at approximately 9am on Friday when the accident unfolded. According to the resort's operator, Tsugaike Gondola Lift Co., the tragedy involved a backpack carried by the customer. A buckle at the end of an unfastened waist belt attached to the backpack became caught in the lift carriage, leading to the devastating chain of events.
How the Accident Unfolded
"Since the chest strap was fastened, the backpack remained attached to the body," the company explained in an official statement. This meant that after disembarking the lift, the customer was dragged along with the backpack. Resort staff acted quickly by pressing the stop button to halt the lift, and prompt rescue efforts were immediately initiated.
The woman was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital, but she was in cardiac arrest upon arrival. Sadly, she was pronounced dead shortly after, according to statements from the resort authorities.
Resort Response and Safety Measures
Tsugaike Mountain Resort President and Representative Director Tsuneo Kubo issued a heartfelt statement on Saturday, expressing profound sorrow over the incident. "We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and sincerely pray for the peace of the departed," Kubo said.
He further emphasised that the company would respond with sincerity and dedication to the bereaved family and the deceased guest. In light of the tragedy, Kubo announced that the resort will strengthen safety management to prevent any recurrence.
Concrete measures will include thorough awareness campaigns regarding the proper handling of equipment and enhanced safety monitoring systems for lift operations. The resort has pledged full cooperation with police and relevant authorities as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Australian Government Involvement
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has confirmed it is providing consular assistance to the family of the Australian who died in Japan. A DFAT spokesperson stated, "We send our deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time. Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide further comment."
This tragic event serves as a sombre reminder of the importance of safety precautions when participating in winter sports activities, particularly in unfamiliar environments. The Australian community mourns the loss of one of its own in such distressing circumstances abroad.
