Why the buzz about the Everest season?
There has been a renewed push this season to create records among international teams. Almost 600 climbers and their associates have been camping in the valleys and villages near Mt. Everest. More than 380 climbers have reached its summit from the south side this season, and at least 120 from the Tibet side. Last year, 640 people reached the summit. However, this push for records has also led to concerns about the fragile ecology of the region.
How did Everest climbing become part of Nepal’s tourism industry?
Everest climbing was once the exclusive preserve of the Sherpas, the sturdiest of the native Himalayan climbers who led from the front. The first summit climber, Edmund Hillary of New Zealand, was supported by his guide Tenzing Norgay. The Himal region of Nepal has always been a destination for serious trekkers. However, over the last two decades, Kathmandu has turned the season of expedition into a tourism season. It has even allowed small passenger aircraft to fly near the summit, in order to give passengers a look at the world’s tallest mountain peak. That said, the Everest season has also helped Nepal generate much-needed foreign currency, apart from providing employment opportunities to the locals. The Nepal government reportedly earns an annual revenue about $3.5 million in the form of Everest climbing fees.
What accounts for the recent deaths and accidents?
There have been at least 10 deaths this year. Expedition attempts, which used to cost $1,00,000, have been made cheaper due to competition and availability of cheaper gear. They now cost about $40,000, sometimes even less. Websites offering budget trips have sprung up. This has created a sudden influx of professionals and enthusiasts from across the world. However, Nepal’s poor infrastructure has not been able to meet the demands.
Does climbing on a large scale jeopardise the fragile mountain range?
Yes it does. Climbers have pointed out that the famed Hillary Step, the most challenging part of the climb located just below the summit, has reportedly crumbled. This was possibly because of the 2015 earthquake or due to the sustained human assault on the mountains. However, fearing bad publicity, the impoverished Nepal government has dismissed reports of the collapse. If true, the loss of the Hillary Step can make the experience more dangerous.
