Nepal Government Makes Electronic Chips Mandatory For Everest Climbers: Here's Why
Attention all adventurers and thrill-seekers gearing up for the ultimate challenge: Mount Everest!?
Get ready for an exciting update that's bound to ensure safer climbs in the majestic Himalayas. Nepal is about to roll out a game-changing rule for all climbers embarking on the Everest journey.?
Starting from this spring climbing season, climbers will be required to carry an electronic chip with them as a mandatory safety measure.?
The chip is designed to improve emergency rescue efforts and provide climbers with an added sense of security as they pursue their dreams of climbing Everest or other mountains around the world. This news is certainly welcome for climbing enthusiasts everywhere.?
High-stakes journey of Everest climbers
"Thousands of climbers from around the globe, including India and Nepal, are drawn to the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) high Mt Everest, also known as Sagarmatha in Nepali. Despite many successfully reaching the summit, some tragically lose their lives or suffer serious injuries during the climb," stated Nepali officials.
According to government data, approximately 300 individuals have lost their lives on Everest since 1953. In the spring season of 2023, 12 climbers, including 4 Nepalese, 1 Indian, and 1 Chinese, died during their expeditions until May 22.
"Situated at an altitude of 18,000 feet, Everest's base camp poses challenges for search and rescue operations due to snowstorms, avalanches, and extreme weather," officials noted.
Fee attached: electronic chips for Everest climbers
Rakesh Gurung, Director at the Department of Tourism, told PTI, "All climbers heading to Everest will be provided with the electronic chip by the government for a fee. It will be fitted into the climber's jacket."
"The chips will be priced at approximately $10 to $15 each," Gurung added.?He emphasized, "The chip will enhance safety during expeditions and facilitate emergency rescue operations."
Gurung also mentioned that some reputable climbing agencies have already equipped their climbers with these electronic chips.
Risks of Everest trekking
In 2019, climbing Mt. Everest became risky due to too many people and long waits. That year, a record 807 climbers reached the top, but some died waiting, according to an article in 'The Week' magazine.?
The problem was the short climbing time and bad weather, which showed how dangerous it can be at such high places with insufficient oxygen.
Mt. Everest used to be a big challenge, but now it's like a popular thing to do, which makes it crowded and risky.??
Everest's emergency room at?5,364 meters
Amid safety concerns for trekkers, a beacon of hope emerges: the Everest Emergency Room. Founded in 2003 by an American doctor and overseen by the Himalayan Rescue Association, this facility is a crucial lifeline for climbers and Sherpas confronting medical crises amidst the rugged terrain of Mount Everest.
Operating at an altitude of 5,364 meters, the clinic battles freezing temperatures, fierce winds, and limited resources to provide critical care to those in need, as per an AFP report.
Despite its life-saving efforts, the clinic struggles financially, relying on patient fees and donations, with unsuccessful attempts to secure government funding. However, it remains a beacon of hope, addressing the healthcare disparity between foreign climbers and Sherpas while facing the harsh realities of rescue operations on the world's tallest peak.??
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