Haiku Stairs in Hawaii Remain Popular Despite Impending Removal
Despite the impending demolition set for April 22, tourists are flocking to the Haiku Stairs for a final glimpse before it's gone. The surge in visitors has led to several arrests as hikers seize the opportunity for one last adventure.
The Haiku Stairs, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is a disused staircase located in a remote area of eastern Oahu. It has gained popularity on social media platforms, leading to a soap opera-like situation surrounding its fate.
Built during World War II by the US Navy, the staircase has become a famous tourist attraction despite being officially closed to visitors since 1987.
On April 23, CNN affiliate Hawaii News Now reported that five individuals were arrested and faced charges of first-degree trespassing.
Furthermore, during the weekend of April 20 and 21, police issued 60 warnings to hikers, eight citations for second-degree trespass, and took 25 parking enforcement actions. It is important to note that second-degree trespassing is considered a misdemeanor offense.
Large group of people at the beach Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
Tourists boats pass on a canal in Amsterdam, Netherlands, May 16, 2018. REUTERS/Francois Lenoir
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Amsterdam has decided to stop the construction of new hotels in an effort to combat overtourism. Those who manage to reach the location, known as the Stairway to Heaven because the stairs can appear to vanish into the fog at the peak of a 2,800-foot mountain, will be treated to stunning views of the island.
Many thrill-seekers have had to trespass on private property to reach the stairs, as there are no official trails. Some individuals shared guides on social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, attracting even more visitors to the location.
The rise in tourism, accompanied by disruptive behavior, played a significant role in the decision of Honolulu's city council to dismantle the stairs in 2021.
Earlier this month, there was an announcement from local authorities that demolition work would start on April 22. This news has resulted in a surge of hikers wanting to take one final visit to the site in recent days.
Honolulu PD District Maj. Randall Platt emphasized that not only is accessing the site illegal, but it is also an active worksite. He mentioned the presence of heavy machinery and helicopters operating in the area, making it dangerous for people to be there. The site is closed off to the public as it is a designated work environment.
Large group of people at the beach Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
Ernesto r. Ageitos/Moment RF/Getty Images/FILE
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A Honolulu city government spokeswoman said in a statement that many individuals have ignored warnings about the project to dismantle the Haiku Stairs, putting themselves and first responders at risk. The city is disappointed and dismayed by this reckless behavior.
Canary Islanders are calling for a hunger strike to protest against overtourism that they say is pricing them out.
The city will need to remove the stairs in one 700-foot section at a time using a helicopter. This process is expected to cost $2.5 million.
There is currently no decision on where the stairs will be relocated after removal. However, Kualoa Ranch, a local tourist attraction, has shown interest in purchasing and housing them.
Editor's P/S:
The situation surrounding the Haiku Stairs highlights the ongoing struggle between preserving historic landmarks and maintaining public safety. While the stairs hold historical significance and offer breathtaking views, the rise in trespassing and disruptive behavior has forced authorities to prioritize public welfare and dismantle the structure. The city's efforts to deter visitors, including arrests and citations, reflect the seriousness of the trespass problem. However, the allure of the stairs continues to attract thrill-seekers, posing significant safety risks.
It is imperative that individuals respect the closure of the Haiku Stairs and refrain from trespassing. The presence of heavy machinery and helicopters during the demolition process makes the site extremely dangerous. The city's disappointment at the reckless behavior displayed by some visitors is understandable. The dismantling of the stairs, though a necessary step, is a loss for history and tourism, but it is ultimately the right decision to ensure public safety.
