Robotic legs make South African rescue debut on Platteklip Gorge

A 47-year-old hiker was helped safely down Table Mountain’s Platteklip Gorge on Saturday night with an unusual piece of rescue equipment: a wearable Hypershell exoskeleton (robotic legs), Cape {town} Etc reports.

According to WSAR, the woman had climbed the popular route with her family on Saturday, 26 September. By the time they reached the summit, the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway had closed for the day, leaving the group facing a long descent as daylight faded.

The family contacted Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) before the situation became an emergency. A small response team, including a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic, went up to meet them.

By then, the mother was exhausted and struggling to continue. The battery-powered device, worn around the hips and thighs, was fitted to support her walking movement. WSAR said her steps became steadier and she was able to make her way down with rescuers alongside her, rather than requiring a stretcher carry.

The operation ended shortly after 23:00, with the entire family safely off the mountain.

A new tool for mountain rescues

The rescue marks South Africa’s first reported use of an exoskeleton during a mountain rescue. WSAR has been working with Hypershell since May to assess the technology in real-world mountain environments.

The takeaway is familiar: start early, check cableway times and carry a torch, water and warm layers. WSAR’s emergency number is 021 937 0300.

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**Picture: **James Dijzel and David Nel / WSAR

The post Robotic legs make South African rescue debut on Platteklip Gorge appeared first on Cape Town ETC.