More than 250,000 tourists have visited the site since the volcanic eruption in Fagradalsfjall began.
This figure was published on the basis of a counting device that measures the number of tourists visiting Iceland’s ‘hottest’ place.
Due to the fact that not everyone hikers to the volcano near the device, the number of visitors to this place is undoubtedly much higher. Suðurnes police chief Gunnar Schram thinks the figure should be closer to 300,000. He says, given the large number of visitors, it is obvious that everyone should be very careful and behave well.
Many times in the media there have been information and stories about tourists who do not respect nature and destroy the new lava field. Additionally, they risk their health and life by climbing a new lava field. If the lava collapsed under the feet of such a person, such an accident could result in death. Fortunately, this has not happened so far.
The policeman pointed out that there will always be some who will risk their lives and it is difficult to deal with such people.
“This is due to the fact that there is no round-the-clock surveillance on site, as it is impossible. Most often, however, the police find out about tourists walking on lava from photos or videos posted on the Internet. In that case, it is too late to react “ commented Gunnar.
Work is underway to improve the information boards and signs that are located near the volcano.
Gunnar added that he hopes that new signs and information that appear in the area will improve the safety of people visiting the place. Although, the policeman added, there will always be some who ignore the safety information.
mmn / visir.is
Source: Yle