Chiang Mai officials have forced two popular attractions — the Flying Squirrels zipline and Grand Canyon — to close temporarily after several accidents resulted in deaths and injuries.
Chiang Mai governor Pawin Chamniprasat announced he had ordered a 15-day closure for both attractions so they can recheck their safety measures and prevent more accidents from happening.
As recently as last week, two Chinese women crashed into each other during a zipline ride at Flying Squirrels. One suffered a hip fracture and the other a sprained ankle.
Pawin said last week’s incident was caused mainly by staff’s recklessness, and not the condition of the equipment.
Another Chinese woman died last year when she fell from the zipline at the venue.
Meanwhile, at least three people have died at Grand Canyon, the popular attraction for cliff diving, according to Khaosod.
Chiang Mai will also launch an inspection of all extreme activity attractions in the province to ensure tourists’ safety, Chiang Mai News reported.
