A major Baliwan River rescue operation unfolded in Hualien County after 23 hikers were trapped by rising water. The incident took place in Fengbin Township when sudden rainfall caused the Baliwan River to surge.
At around 5 p.m., local authorities received an urgent report about the stranded hikers. All 23 individuals were stuck on the far bank of the river, unable to return. The Hualien County Fire Department responded immediately by dispatching a special search and rescue team.
Jian Hong-cheng, captain of the rescue team, said more than 30 personnel joined the effort. Firefighters, police officers, and volunteers from Fengbin and Shuilian worked together in challenging conditions. Heavy rain and fast-flowing water created a dangerous situation for both the hikers and rescuers.
Despite the downpour, the team quickly built a rope crossing system. Their first priority was to deliver food and clean water to the trapped group. This helped restore energy and calm nerves while the water remained high.
As the rain began to slow, the team predicted that the river would start to drop. They installed a belay system further upstream to prepare for a safe crossing. When conditions improved slightly, rescuers guided each hiker across one at a time.
The Baliwan River rescue took place near Baliwan Mountain, which stands at 992 meters and holds cultural importance. The Amis people consider the mountain sacred. The area also includes Cilangasan, the tallest peak in the northern Coastal Mountain Range.
Baliwan Mountain, once known as Maogongshan, is one of Taiwan’s “100 Peaks.” Many hikers visit the area, and the trek often requires several river crossings. Sudden weather changes can make those crossings dangerous.
Fortunately, thanks to rapid coordination and skilled teamwork, the Baliwan River rescue ended without injuries. Authorities are urging future hikers to check weather forecasts carefully and avoid river crossings after rainfall.
