Rescue leaders warn Gullfoss fee could put visitors at risk

Five rescue team leaders in Uppsveitir Árnessýslu have warned that a planned nature and infrastructure fee at Gullfoss waterfall could put tourists in danger, mbl.is reported. They fear the charge could lead more visitors to the waterfall’s east bank, where safety infrastructure is lacking.

A draft government bill proposes charging foreign visitors 4,500 Icelandic krónur per person in summer and 3,000 krónur in winter to visit three state-owned destinations: Þingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss.

The rescue leaders say the area needs safe walking paths, barriers along canyon edges and other hazardous spots, as well as signs and guidance for visitors. They also want authorities to assess whether roads, access and telecommunications would allow rescuers to reach people after an accident.

“Without reliable communications, it can be difficult to call for help and coordinate a response,” the leaders said in a joint statement. They added that a sudden increase in visitors to an unprepared area could create serious danger before officials have time to respond.

Kristinn Bjarnason, head of the Biskupstungna rescue team, told mbl.is that visitor numbers on the east bank are currently very limited. If tourists begin gathering there instead, he said, the lack of proper paths and railings is a concern. He pointed to Stuðlagil, where efforts are under way to improve conditions after the popular destination was linked to loss of life.

The rescue leaders called on the government to postpone the fee until it has assessed the safety implications and ensured the necessary measures are in place. The statement was signed by Tobias Ölvinsson, Kristinn Bjarnason, Magnús Bjarki Snæbjörnsson, Jóhannes Þórólfur Guðmundsson and Björn Axel Guðbjörnsson, representing five rescue teams.