CNN —Rescuers in Ecuador are working through the night to free dozens of people trapped in gondolas on one of the world’s highest cable car systems. Firefighters were alerted around 4 p.m. local time Thursday of a technical failure that affected the Quito Cable Car, with at least 70 people trapped, the Quito municipality said in a statement. In the early hours of Friday morning, Quito authorities said 17 people had been rescued so far. Photos released by Quito authorities show emergency workers huddled in the dark, with the city mayor on site. Loop Images/Universal Images Group/Getty ImagesThe Quito Cable Car, also known as the Telefériqo, reaches more than 3,947 meters (12,950 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest cable cars in South America, according to its official website.

---

Organizations: CNN, Firefighters, Quito Cable, Quito Cable Car Locations: Ecuador, Quito, South America