Daocheng Yading scenic area's announcement on Weibo. /Weibo screenshot
Recently, Daocheng Yading scenic area in Sichuan Province announced that it will charge risk-taking tourists for rescue operations, sparking an online debate as to the wisdom of the move.
Tourists who stray from the designated traveling route or purposely ignore warnings may be hit with a bill of 2,000 US dollars and upwards.
In recent years, six people have died at the location which is marked by complex terrain, high altitude and lack of oxygen.
On social media, supporters praised the decision by Daocheng Yading as a proper punishment for people who do not follow rules while opponents criticized it as overstressing money.
Daocheng Yading’s newest public notice on Weibo said that tourist groups and individuals take part in illegal crossings in the scenic area.
Illegal crossing to Yading national nature reserve by any organization or individual is prohibited in accordance with China's nature protection regulations.
In fact, Daocheng Yading scenic area is not the only place that puts forward paid search and rescue operation. In June this year, the official website of Mount. Huangshan scenic spot published measures for paid rescue.
In the U.S. or Europe, people are on their own when it comes to costs for rescue, but many outdoor enthusiasts purchase special insurance that covers costs if a rescue is needed.
