Nepal Proposes Stricter Everest Climbing Permits After Record Season and Deaths

NEW DELHI: Nepal lawmakers have proposed that climbers seeking an Everest permit should first summit at least one 7,000m peak in the country, part of a wider move to tighten access to the world’s highest mountain after a record spring season that saw 1,008 successful ascents from the Nepal side — the first time the number crossed the 1,000 mark — and five deaths, including two Indians. Nepal issued 492 permits for Mount Everest this season, while concerns over crowding, inexperienced climbers and waste returned to the centre of the debate. The proposals are part of 263 amendments to Nepal’s Integrated Tourism Bill, now being examined by Parliament. One set of amendments seeks to make prior high-altitude experience mandatory for Everest permits, with suggestions ranging from one 7,000m and one 8,000m summit to a tougher requirement of one Nepal peak above 7,000m and two peaks above 8,000m. Another proposal seeks mandatory training and a medical certificate issued within a month of the permit application. The amendments also seek to change how Nepal manages climber numbers on Everest and other high mountains. MPs have proposed that govt assess terrain, weather windows and congestion risks before fixing a maximum number of permits for each mountain and season. Within that quota, one proposal says permits should be auctioned from a minimum price of $15,000 and awarded to the highest bidders. Waste control forms another major part of the package. Expedition teams may be required to attach QR codes to every item carried above base camp, digitally record all equipment taken up the mountain, and weigh and certify gear and trash brought back. MPs have also proposed a ban on single-use plastics and a zero-waste policy covering biodegradable and non-biodegradable material. Other proposals include army-led integrated check posts staffed by govt agencies, and liaison officers stationed there to monitor permits and expedition activity. The amendments seek a 20kg load ceiling above base camp, cashless medical and rescue cover, and stronger death, treatment and search insurance for Sherpas, guides and support workers. Commercial expeditions and package sales may also be routed only through Nepal-registered agencies, meaning foreign companies would not be allowed to directly sell or operate such trips. Tashi Lhakpa Sherpa of 14 Peaks Expedition told TOI, "The intent to screen climbers is understandable, but only a few of the 7,000-metre peaks attract climbers. The rule could push most Everest aspirants towards the same handful of preparatory peaks unless govt develops alternatives with proper routes, rescue support and expedition infrastructure." Nepal Mountaineering Association officials said the rule could reduce pressure on Everest and help build Nepal’s wider mountaineering economy. NMA president Phur Gelje Sherpa said, "Everest aspirants could be encouraged to climb peaks such as Himlung Himal, Baruntse, Tilicho Peak, Putha Hiunchuli, Nuptse and Annapurna South before attempting Everest, spreading climbers beyond the standard Everest route and creating business for local agencies, guides, porters and mountain communities"