Now Reading: Nepal plans tougher Everest climb rules, Indian mountaineers split
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Nepal plans tougher Everest climb rules, Indian mountaineers split
Nepal plans tougher Everest climb rules, Indian mountaineers split
Nepal is reportedly considering a new rule in its draft Tourism Bill that would require anyone seeking an Everest permit to first summit a peak above 7,000 metres within Nepal itself. The…
The Story in Brief
Nepal is reportedly considering a new rule in its draft Tourism Bill that would require anyone seeking an Everest permit to first summit a peak above 7,000 metres within Nepal itself. The move follows a record spring season with 492 Everest permits issued and 1,008 ascents, but also five deaths including two Indians.
Indian mountaineers broadly support mandatory high-altitude experience before attempting Everest, but many oppose the condition that the qualifying climb must be in Nepal. Colonel Vijay Singh of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation recommends climbing four to five peaks between 6,500 and 7,500 metres before Everest. Dr Anshu Jamsenpa, a five-time Everest summiteer, says the Indian Mountaineering Foundation should seek recognition for climbs done in India.
The Indian Opinion
The usual chatter about Everest being a 'commercial circus' misses the point: regulation is welcome, but restricting qualifying climbs to Nepal looks less about safety and more about protecting a monopoly. India has peaks like Nanda Devi and Kamet that test climbers just as hard. If Nepal wants to raise standards, it should recognise documented experience anywhere, not just inside its borders. The real test will be whether the Indian Mountaineering Foundation actually negotiates a reciprocal deal or just issues a press statement.
Source: thefederal.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
