SLIM RIVER: Firefighters used high line and rafting techniques to rescue 21 people, including two babies, who were stranded at Risda Eco Park following a water surge incident and collapsed bridges.
Perak Fire and Rescue Department Zone 4 chief Khairil Adli Zakaria said the water surge at 8pm last night caused several bridges connecting the recreational area to collapse.
"Eighteen victims were staying at the Eco Park, along with one staff member and two visitors. The rescue operation that began at 8am today ended at 12.30pm.
"We used river-crossing techniques, including high line methods, to evacuate the victims to a safer area," he told reporters at the scene.
He added that it took about four hours to complete the mission due to the strong current of Sungai Geliting and the presence of children among the victims.
"We also used boat rafting to bring them out. We evacuated them one by one using the high line, and when the current was too strong, we employed rafting techniques.
"All of them are in good condition and have been handed over to the Eco Park management for further action," he said.
He added that 30 rescuers were involved in the operation, including 12 from the department, five from Civil Defence Force and 13 from non-governmental organisations.
Earlier, Perak police chief Datuk Azizi Mat Aris said the victims were stranded because the bridge connecting the recreational area collapsed, and the water current was strong.
Azizi said electricity in the area has also been cut off, but they were still contactable.