Italian Speleologist Trapped in Bergamo Cave, Rescue Underway
A dramatic rescue operation is unfolding in the Italian Alps near Bergamo, where 32-year-old speleologist Ottavia Piana is trapped in the Bueno Fonteno cave system. Piana suffered multiple fractures to her legs, chest, and face after an eight-metre fall into an unexplored section of the cave.
Despite her injuries, reports indicate Piana remains conscious and stable under the care of medical personnel on-site. The rescue effort involves over 126 highly skilled technicians from the Alpine Rescue team, who are meticulously widening narrow passages using small explosive charges to create a safe path for extraction.
The operation is expected to be lengthy and complex, with officials estimating it could take several days to complete. “The operation could take several days,” a spokesperson for the Alpine Rescue team stated, adding that Piana’s safe extraction is anticipated by Thursday morning.
This isn’t Piana’s first brush with danger in the Bueno Fonteno cave. In July 2023, she was previously trapped for 40 hours within the same system. This incident underscores the inherent risks involved in exploring such challenging and unpredictable environments.
The rescue mission highlights the dedication and expertise of the Alpine Rescue teams, who regularly face perilous situations to save lives in the challenging terrain of the Italian Alps. The incident also serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with spelunking, even for experienced cavers.
Updates on Piana’s condition and the progress of the rescue operation will be provided as they become available. The international community is holding its breath, hoping for a prosperous and swift rescue.
Ottavia Piana is a 32-year-old Italian speleologist who is trapped in the Bueno Fonteno cave system near Bergamo. She suffered multiple fractures to her legs, chest, and face after an eight-meter fall into an unexplored section of the cave. [1] Over 126 Alpine Rescue team technicians are working to extract her using small explosive charges to widen passages. [1] The rescue is expected to take several days. [1]
This is not Piana’s first time being trapped in the Bueno Fonteno cave; she was trapped for 40 hours in July 2023. [1]
