Two years after the rockfall drama with three deaths in the canyon at Mixnitz, there is finally hope for reopening – next year. The Alpine Club has presented a total concept with new protective measures.
The Bärenschützklamm in Mixnitz is a unique natural jewel and is one of the most popular destinations for Styria. But on July 8, 2020, there was a tragedy that would change everything: several boulders broke free from the cliffs and crashed. Three people died and nine were injured, some seriously.
Klamm closed for two years
Since that black day, the gorge, which up to 40,000 people, including tourists from all over the world, walk through has been closed. There was much discussion and speculation about the future of the excursion destination, and there was even talk of a complete shutdown.
But now the Mixnitz Alpine Club, which manages the gorge – on a voluntary basis! – is working, with a concrete prospect of reopening: “We have designed extensive new protective measures and are currently waiting for official approval,” said Mixnitz Alpine Club President Gerhard Jantscher.
“Nature must remain nature”
Steel nets need to be installed at several critical points, including where the crushed stone occurred two years ago. However, the entire gorge will not be covered with nets: “Nature must remain nature”, says Jantscher, “and 100% safety in alpine terrain can never be”.
In the best case scenario, the Alpine Club wants to get started this fall and the gap could open again in the second half of 2023.
Until then, however, there is still a financial effort to be made: Jantscher estimates that the protective measures will cost at least 800,000 euros. “This is only possible with the support of the public sector and donations.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
