Nepal may call off expeditions to Mt Everest this year

Nepal could call off expeditions to Mount Everest this year after mountaineering authorities advised the government not to take further risks as the climbing route has been destroyed by the earthquake-triggered avalanche that killed over 20 mountaineers.

If the expedition is suspended, it would be the second consecutive year that the climbing season has been called off because of deaths on the world’s highest peak. Last year, the government had to suspend trekking activities following an avalanche that killed 16 Sherpa guides.

After the thorough assessment of the damage at Base Camp and the Icefall caused by the devastating earthquake and avalanche of April 25, Icefall Doctors team and the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) have advised the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation not to proceed with further expeditions.

SPCC told the government that the “risk of setting a route in the current situation cannot be taken”.

“SPCC Chairperson Ang Dorjee Sherpa conducted a survey of the situation at Everest Base Camp and the Khumbu Icefall, and have now advised the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation and stakeholders concerned not to take further risks by continuing work on the mountain,” said a statement by the SPCC.

However, the government is yet to take any decision in this regard and the climbing permits are valid until the end of May, said a spokesperson for the tourism board.