Lawmakers seek tougher Everest climbing rules with 263 amendments to Tourism Bill
Summary
Nepalese lawmakers have proposed 263 amendments to tighten regulations for climbing Mount Everest and other peaks, including stricter permit requirements, enhanced safety and insurance measures, and environmental protections within the new Integrated Tourism Bill.
Key Points
- 58 lawmakers have proposed 263 amendments to Nepal's Integrated Tourism Bill focused on mountaineering regulations.
- Proposals include stricter permit requirements, such as mandatory prior climb experience on peaks above 7,000 and 8,000 meters.
- Amendments seek to restrict commercial expedition operations to Nepali-registered agencies and foreign companies from direct sales.
- Mandatory insurance coverage and medical certification for climbers are recommended, along with safety rights for support staff.
- Environmental measures include bans on single-use plastics, zero-waste policies, and restrictions on drones and helicopters above 6,000 meters.
