Mountain guides in Iceland demand clearer regulations after tragic Breiðamerkurjökull accident

Mountain guides in Iceland are calling for clearer regulations regarding ice cave and glacier tours following a tragic accident at Breiðamerkurjökull. Garðar Hrafn Sigurjónsson, vice chairman of the Icelandic Mountain Guides Association, stated that stronger laws are necessary to ensure the safety of such excursions and to improve the education of those offering them.

While there are existing guidelines, enforcement remains a challenge. Sigurjónsson expressed condolences for the victims of the accident, emphasizing that the incident illustrates the urgent need for legislative action regarding when these tours should be conducted. He noted that companies providing these services are required to obtain special permits, carry insurance, receive approval from the Icelandic tourism board, and develop safety plans. Currently, nearly 30 companies are permitted to offer ice cave tours within Vatnajökull National Park, with very few operating during the summer months.

Sigurjónsson highlighted that park management lacks the authority to prevent people from accessing the glacier. Traditionally, such activities have occurred during the winter, but the rapid growth of the tourism sector has complicated matters.

He stressed the importance of enhancing the legal framework to give the national park more power and ensure compliance with established rules. The association plans to release a statement later today, demanding a comprehensive investigation into the accident, akin to those conducted by the Transportation Accident Investigation Board.