Rescue experts are still trying to save seven villagers from a remote village in Phonxay district, Xaysomboun province, central Laos, who have been trapped inside a flooded cave for almost six days.
The Vientiane Times reported yesterday that the victims, alleged illegal gold miners, were trapped inside the cave on May 20, after water levels began to rise.
“The rescue operation was very challenging because of continuously rising water levels inside the cave caused by ongoing rainfall.
“Lao and Thai rescue teams have been working around the clock to reach the trapped villagers. However, floodwater, difficult terrain and poor weather conditions have slowed operations and forced rescuers to proceed with caution,” Vice Chairwoman of the Administration Committee of Xaysomboun Province Phetsamai Phoxayavong said on Monday, according to Vientiane Times.
She is also the head of the Provincial Disaster Management Committee.
The cave is believed to be more than 100 metres deep, and that the steep entrance poses a major challenge for rescuers, experts said.
The ongoing monsoon season, which is bringing heavy rainfall to the landlocked nation, is hampering rescue efforts as water levels remain high. Additionally, difficult road conditions have further complicated the situation.
Phetsamai said that as of 8 pm on Monday, preparations were underway for another rescue attempt despite the challenges.
