79-year-old hiker who went missing in Hong Kong found on third day of search
A 79-year-old mainland Chinese man who went missing while hiking on Hong Kong’s MacLehose Trail over the weekend was found on Monday afternoon. Rescuers found He Chengan conscious near Kwan Tai Temple in Tai Tong along Section 10 of the trail, where he had last been seen, police said. A government helicopter airlifted him to Tuen Mun Hospital. He was covered with sand and missing both shoes, although one lay nearby. Rescuers placed him on a stretcher and later covered him with a foil blanket to...
A 79-year-old man from mainland China, He Chengan, who had gone missing while hiking on Hong Kong’s MacLehose Trail over the weekend, was found alive on the third day of an extensive search operation. Rescuers located him conscious near Kwan Tai Temple in Tai Tong along Section 10 of the trail, where he had last been seen. The discovery came as a relief to authorities and family members who had been anxiously awaiting news of his whereabouts.
He Chengan, a retired engineer from Shenzhen, had set out on the MacLehose Trail, a popular hiking route that stretches over 100 kilometers across the New Territories, on Saturday morning. However, he failed to return to his accommodation as planned, prompting his family to report him missing on Sunday evening. Hong Kong Police Force immediately launched a search operation, involving both ground and air resources, to locate the missing hiker.
The search efforts intensified on Monday afternoon when a team of rescuers spotted He Chengan near Kwan Tai Temple. He was found lying on the trail, covered in sand and without his shoes, although one of them was discovered nearby. Despite his disheveled appearance and the challenging conditions, He Chengan was conscious and responsive when the rescuers approached him.
A government-operated helicopter was dispatched to airlift He Chengan to Tuen Mun Hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Initial assessments indicated that he was in stable condition, though dehydrated and exhausted from his ordeal. Medical staff provided him with fluids and hydration to restore his health.
The circumstances surrounding He Chengan’s disappearance are still being investigated. Authorities are examining whether he had encountered any difficulties on the trail, such as navigational challenges or physical ailments, that may have contributed to his prolonged absence. The MacLehose Trail, known for its scenic beauty and rugged terrain, requires hikers to be well-prepared and experienced.
The successful rescue of He Chengan highlights the effectiveness of Hong Kong’s emergency response system and the dedication of the rescuers involved in the operation. The incident serves as a reminder to hikers of the importance of proper preparation, including carrying sufficient water, food, and appropriate footwear, as well as informing someone of their planned route and expected return time.
Family members expressed gratitude to the rescue team and the authorities for their swift actions in locating He Chengan. They also emphasized the need for increased awareness of the risks associated with hiking in remote areas, urging others to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
As He Chengan recovers in the hospital, the Hong Kong Police Force and Civil Aid Service continue to monitor the MacLehose Trail, ensuring that the area remains safe for other hikers. The incident has underscored the importance of preparedness and the value of a well-coordinated search and rescue operation in preserving lives in the face of unexpected challenges.
