KATHMANDU:- Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadakraj Paudel has stated that the government is preparing to introduce new legal provisions to manage the increasing number of climbers on Mount Everest.
Responding to questions raised during the ministerial-level discussion on the Appropriation Bill in the National Assembly on Monday, he mentioned that plans are underway to prohibit Everest expeditions for those who have not previously climbed a peak higher than 7,000 meters.
He stated that special priority would be given to the conservation of Mount Everest as the process of formulating new tourism-related acts, regulations, and procedures moves forward. According to him, plans are underway to include a provision in the proposed act requiring the successful ascent of a peak above 7,000 meters as a prerequisite for obtaining a permit to climb Mount Everest.
He stated that such a system would not only reduce overcrowding on Mount Everest but also ensure that permits are granted only to experienced climbers. He acknowledged the concern that excessive crowding on the mountain poses a threat to its long-term preservation and very existence.
He noted that the Ministry would focus on promoting all forms of tourism, keeping the diversity of the sector in mind. He emphasized that relying on a single type of tourism promotion would not be sustainable.
He stated that he would issue the necessary directives to the Nepal Airlines Corporation regarding the maintenance and expansion of its Twin Otter aircraft. He also informed that diplomatic efforts are underway to secure the necessary air routes for the operation of Pokhara and Bhairahawa airports.