Nizwa – A hiking trip in Nizwa turned tragic as 16 hikers went missing after being swept away in Wadi Tanuf during heavy rains in the area.

Rescue teams of Civil Defence and Ambulance Department in Dakhliyah, working with citizens of the area, located the group, finding four individuals dead and transferring four others to hospital with injuries ranging from moderate to critical.

According to Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA), the group of multinational hikers encountered unexpected weather conditions.

Royal Oman Police (ROP) reported that among the deceased were a citizen and three individuals of Arab nationalities. One person, reported to be in critical condition, was transported by police helicopter to Nizwa Hospital for urgent medical care.

The accident prompted both CDAA and ROP to urge citizens and residents to follow safety guidelines strictly when engaging in outdoor activities. They emphasised the importance of checking weather conditions before setting off on such trips and registering location and participant data through the Nidaa application.

Following the accident, people took to social media to express  concern and call for improved safety measures. On X, Salem Mohammed wrote, “Oman is beautiful and has many mountain trails. If you go on a mountain hike, make sure there is a local person who is familiar with the area and its terrain.”

Hamed al Rasbi highlighted the responsibility of tour organisers, stating, “This is a sport fraught with danger. The organising company should have taken safety and security factors into account, including weather conditions.”

Another citizen, Majeed al Maskari, voiced his concern about the need for regulations, asking, “Isn’t it time to make rules and regulations to organise such hiking groups because of the risks and dangers they pose to participants and to the police? Lives are lost and serious injuries are sustained on an ongoing basis. When will this stop?”

Abdullah al Saadi stressed the importance of preparedness, saying, “The tragic incident in Wadi Tanuf shows the importance of taking all necessary precautions when practising such activities, especially in rugged areas, taking into account weather conditions and ensuring the readiness of teams and individuals for emergency conditions.”

Speaking to Muscat Daily, mountaineer Khalid al Balushi said, “Hikers should choose the right trail according to their fitness level. Once you have selected a trail, obtain a map of the area, read reviews and gather proper data.” Highlighting the importance of monitoring weather, he added, “Every hike should be well organised and have a prepared plan. Participants must prepare and train well.”