Visitors Intercepted on a Closed Section of the PR1 - Vereda do Arieiro, Despite Safety Signs
Three tourists were fined a total of €750 after they were found walking in a closed section of the PR1 – Vereda do Areeiro trail, which connects Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, according to the Madeira Institute for Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN).
Officials reported that the visitors ignored the closure signs and climbed over a safety gate at the trail entrance. They were intercepted near Pico do Arieiro by the Forest Police.
Fines Applied According to Regional Hiking Trail Law and Voluntarily Paid by Visitors
Each individual voluntarily paid a fine of €250, in line with Regional Legislative Decree No. 24/2022/M, which regulates hiking trails in Madeira. The IFCN emphasized that the incident was quickly reported by local tour guides, highlighting cooperation from the tourism sector in following safety rules.
Authorities Stress the Importance of Following Safety Rules to Protect Lives and Preserve Madeira’s Trails
Manuel Filipe, president of the IFCN, underlined the seriousness of the situation:
The classified hiking trails are natural and cultural heritage of the Region, but they are also risky areas when conditions are unsafe. Ignoring access rules not only endangers the lives of visitors, but also undermines the work carried out to protect the territory. The application of this fine demonstrates the firmness of supervision and the importance of everyone respecting the authorities’ instructions. (…) Closure signs exist to protect both people and the environment
Source: Jornal da Madeira
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