The Swedish Tourist Association Closes Cabin Site, Raising Concerns for Hiker Safety
Published 7 Jan 2024 at 10.20am
The Swedish Tourist Association (STF) has made the decision to close the cabin site Gåsen in Jämtland, a move that has raised alarm among mountain rescuers who fear for the safety of hikers in the area.
According to the Swedish National Association of Mountain Rescuers, the closure of the Gåsen cabin could potentially lead to fatal consequences for hikers in the region, as it will result in longer distances between mountain stations and a lack of shelter in severe weather conditions.
“It will be three and a half to four miles between the mountain stations and it is too far if you need to seek shelter,” said Rickard Svedjesten, chairman of the Swedish National Association of Mountain Rescuers, in an interview with SVT Jämtland.
The closure of the Gåsen cabin site stems from the renegotiation of the lease agreement with the county administration, with the goal of creating a larger area where reindeer and their calves can roam in peace. However, the decision has sparked concerns about the potential negative impact on mountain safety.
“We do not think that a proper risk and consequence analysis has been carried out. It can ultimately lead to someone getting into an accident,” Svedjesten added.
The Swedish National Association of Mountain Rescuers has appealed the lease agreement to the government in hopes of addressing the safety concerns raised by the closure of the Gåsen cabin site.
The fate of the Gåsen cabin site and its implications for hiker safety in Jämtland have become a topic of concern within the outdoor and tourism communities. The potential dangers posed by the lack of shelter and longer distances between mountain stations have prompted calls for a comprehensive evaluation of the situation.
As the issue continues to unfold, stakeholders and outdoor enthusiasts are closely monitoring the developments and hoping for a solution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of hikers in the Jämtland region.