EASTERN SARAJEVO: A tragic accident has claimed the lives of two Pakistani-Canadian tourists during a late-night rescue operation in the rugged Miljacka Canyon, near Celjugovici, situated in the Eastern Old Town municipality of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
According to initial reports, the tourists were part of a group traveling across Europe, with plans to visit Pakistan before returning to Canada. Their scenic exploration of the canyon took a devastating turn when an apparent fall down a steep area triggered an emergency call.
Local authorities quickly launched a large-scale rescue operation. Teams from the Firefighting Unit of Istocno Sarajevo, Sarajevo Firefighters, and the Mountain Rescue Service of Istocni Stari Grad (GSS) were deployed to the remote location. Medical personnel from Dom zdravlja Pale (Pale Health Center) also responded to the scene.
Despite the rapid response, two tourists succumbed to their injuries at the site. Two other group members were successfully rescued and transported to a nearby medical facility, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The Mountain Rescue Service later released a statement commending the swift action of all rescue personnel involved and expressing condolences to the families of the deceased. The agency emphasized the dangers of hiking in challenging terrains without proper safety measures and guidance.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. Further details are expected as the inquiry progresses.
Local officials are urging tourists to exercise caution when venturing into remote or difficult landscapes, especially in unfamiliar foreign territories.