A tourist in China was trapped under a fierce waterfall for five minutes during a rappelling activity. He suffered injuries and was diagnosed with acute stress reaction.
A tourist was left suspended in mid-air under a fierce waterfall for approximately five minutes during a rappelling activity in central China. The incident occurred at Yangjiaotan waterfall area on August 15.
The man, identified as Tang, was the first to attempt the activity. After rappelling halfway down the rope, he became stuck as powerful water crashed over him. He struggled desperately, spinning and flailing as he dangled above rocks.
Company said the guide rescued him within three minutes, but tourist disputed the account
Tang recounted choking on water and being unable to breathe. He said the instructor had told him he could go down despite the strong water flow. He was knocked away by the current and submerged several times.
He suffered multiple abrasions and soft-tissue injuries. When he returned to Zhengzhou, he struggled to walk and requested hospital assistance. He was later admitted to the psychological medicine department for two days and diagnosed with an acute stress reaction.
Tang said the group leader failed to check on him during the journey back. He sought compensation for lost earnings, psychological distress, and personal belongings swept away. The company rejected parts of his account.
Manager Guo said the guide acted quickly and rescued him within nearly three minutes. The guide checked his condition and noted a red mark around his waist. Tang said he felt dizzy and nauseous.
The company refused his psychological compensation request due to lack of medical proof. They offered to refund the booking fee, pay compensation, and cover treatment, but no agreement was reached.
Guo said, "Psychological trauma can be big or small. There has to be a standard. After treatment, we can use the medical diagnosis to discuss this matter."
The waterfall route has since been suspended for organised groups. Local authorities said the incident occurred in an undeveloped area and are following up.
