Volunteers have recently joined forces with representatives from both the public and private sectors to help restore one of the most popular attractions in the Turiec region of northern Slovakia.
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Ferrata HZS, the oldest via ferrata in Slovakia, which leads to the Martinské hole sports hub, was severely damaged by floods in mid-September and is now closed to the public. Although representatives of the town of Martin offered direct assistance in the field shortly after the disaster, they were unable to finance the full reconstruction from the town’s budget because of legal restrictions.
For this reason, they reached an agreement with the regional tourism organisation OOCR Turiec, which will allocate €20,000 to cover the reconstruction work, the SITA newswire reported.
“The joint effort has not only practical but also symbolic significance,” said Dalibor Steindl, head of the tourism organisation, as quoted by the regional newspaper MY Turiec. “It shows that the Turiec region stands together when it comes to a good and worthwhile cause.”
The via ferrata is among the most popular destinations for tourists from all over Slovakia, he added.
“We want it to become safe and accessible for everyone again,” Steindl said. “We believe that by joining forces, we can achieve this.”
Tourists encouraged to help
The torrential rain particularly damaged the lower parts of the via ferrata, with floodwater completely destroying eight bridges. In addition, the local stream has changed its course entirely. Initial estimates suggested that the repairs would require €20,000, although this may not be the final sum, MY Turiec reported.
Some metal bridges could not be found, while others were torn apart, rescuer Peter Roštek told the TASR newswire. He added that they have already replaced 100 metres of ropes in the upper section and plan to start work on the lower part sometime in October.
Steindl specified that €7,000 will be allocated in the first phase. The aim is to organise a volunteer event in late October, during which participants will, for example, search for damaged metal bridges and other structural components. Tourists and members of the general public are also welcome to join.
In the next phase, it will be necessary to create a long-term financing model to ensure the via ferrata’s sustainability.
