Saudi mountain dwellers rely on risky cable car

Contrary to the general belief that Saudi Arabia is a mere barren desert country rich in oil, the Gulf kingdom has one of the most beautiful spots in the world. Among them are the Fifa Mountains in the south.

Visitors to the stunning hills in the southern province of Jazan near the border with Yemen will enjoy their greenery, loftiness, ruggedness and mild weather.

But what could also take their breath is something that has nothing to do with nature—a primitive car cable hanging in the skies overhead.
The machine has been made by local residents of a mere rusty tin container and iron bars hanging on a thick power cable fed by two large electric generators on both ends. Inhabitants use the primitive, risky cable car to move between the hills and transport sheep, foodstuffs, building materials and other items.

The machine has a capacity of 200 kg and most people risk their lives to use in a bid to save time and effort which could be spent in using cars or donkeys.

“People there still heavily rely on this cable car in moving and transporting things despite the risks involved….there are reports of some people falling to death in the past years as the machine lacks the minimum elements of safety…this machine has become a sort of risky attractions watched by visitors to the region,” the Saudi Arabic language daily 'Sabq' said.

But the paper quoted a local official as saying the cable car has been upgraded over the past two years to become safer.

“Most people now use it to visit each other and transport goods…I have not received reports of any accident since I assumed my duties here four years ago,” said Alaiwi Al Onaizi, head of the Fifa Car Cable company.

“Some visitors and tourists have also started to use it….this has encouraged us to think of developing the machine to become a major tourism attraction…we have discussed the project with businessmen but found no interest so far.”
 

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