In a tragic incident, two tourists strolling at Ubud Monkey Forest, a popular tourist spot in Bali, Indonesia, lost their lives after a massive tree fell on them. The area reported heavy rainfall and gusty winds a day before the incident.
According to Sky News, one of the tourists was from France and the other was a resident of South Korea. The sanctuary released an official statement condemning the death of the tourists and announced the closure of the Forest on December 11 and 12.
The viral video shows the terrifying moment tourists realise a massive tree is about to fall and run away to save their lives. As the video moves forward, it shows the chaos as the massive tree crashes to the ground. Among several tourists, a toddler, in a stroller, can also be seen in the video.
Sharing the video on Instagram, Indonesia senator for Bali 2024-2029, Ni Luh Putu Ary Pertami Djelantik, wrote, “It is with deep regret to report that two foreign tourists tragically lost their lives after being struck by banyan, pule, and kresek trees in the Monkey Forest, Ubud, on Tuesday afternoon.”
“Our thoughts and condolences are with the families and loved ones of those affected by this unfortunate incident,” the post said.
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“We are still gathering data about the victims as consulates are contacting us to check if their citizens were involved,” said Gusti Ngurah Dibya Presasta, head of emergency and logistics, Gianyar Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), as reported by Jakarta Globe.
According to indonesia.travel, the forest comprises approximately a tenth of a square kilometre (27 acres, approximately) with at least 115 different species of trees.