Nepal is all set to introduce a mandatory safety measure for all those climbers who head on to the challenging journey to Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. If reports are to go by, beginning this Spring, all climbers will be required to carry an electronic chip, a rule that aims to enhance rescue operations in case of emergencies during the ascent or descent of the 8,849 metres (29,032 ft) high mountain.
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As such, the government is in the process of devising a regulation that will mandate the use of such a chip. Reports add that it’s anticipated that this initiative will come into effect from the upcoming Spring season, which will be coinciding with the commencement of the climbing season on Mt. Everest. This period marks the opening of the limited time frame suitable for ascending to exceptionally high altitudes.
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With the opening of the narrow climbing window that occurs during the Spring season, thousands of climbers worldwide, including those from India and Nepal, are drawn to Mt. Everest, also known as Sagarmatha in Nepali. While many manage to successfully reach the summit, reports of unfortunate incidents of fatalities and serious injuries have also been recorded over the years. Since 1953, Nepal government data indicates that around 300 individuals have lost their lives on Mt. Everest.
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Further reports add that in the Spring season of 2023 alone, up to May 22, 12 climbers, including four Nepalese, one Indian, and one Chinese, lost their lives during expeditions to Mt. Everest. The challenging terrain and extreme weather conditions, including snowstorms and avalanches, make search and rescue operations from the Everest base camp, which is situated at an altitude of 18,000 ft.
To address safety concerns, the Nepali government plans to provide electronic chips to all climbers at a nominal cost, which as of now, is estimated to be between USD 10 to USD 15. Rakesh Gurung, the Director at the Department of Tourism, emphasised that the fitting these chips into the climbers’ jackets will not only contribute to safer expeditions, but will also facilitate more efficient emergency rescue operations.
Reports add that some reputable climbing agencies have already adopted this safety measure by providing electronic chips to their climbers ahead of the official implementation of the rule.