The Everest Summitter’s Association has expressed serious concern over increasing safety risks in Nepal’s Himalayan region, stating that growing insecurity is negatively affecting international tourists and the country’s adventure tourism reputation. Issuing a press statement on Sunday, the association urged the Government of Nepal to take immediate and effective measures to ensure the safety of climbers, guides, and support staff operating in high-altitude regions.
The association also noted that the situation has become more sensitive following Nepal’s announcement to observe the year 2085 B.S. as Visit Nepal Year, stressing that safety concerns in mountain regions must be addressed urgently to maintain international confidence in Nepal’s tourism sector.
Concern Over Disappearance of Climber Raises Alarm
The association has drawn special attention to the case of 57-year-old climber Dawa Sherpa, a resident of Khijidemba Rural Municipality–6 in Okhaldhunga, who was reportedly working above Everest Base Camp and went missing under unclear circumstances.
According to the Everest Summitter’s Association, the incident has deeply concerned both its members and the wider climbing community, raising questions about operational safety standards and emergency response mechanisms in high-altitude expeditions. The association stated that it has received information from the climber’s family alleging negligence in rescue operations, including claims that the trekking company involved did not take timely search and rescue action and instead issued irresponsible statements.
Allegations of Negligence and Unsafe Working Conditions
In its statement, the Everest Summitter’s Association further alleged that the climber, who was working as a cook at the second base camp, was pressured to move toward the fourth base camp under unclear circumstances. It also questioned the handling of the situation after the climber went missing for six days, demanding clarification on how search and rescue operations were conducted during that period. The Everest Summitter’s Association has called for the formation of a high-level investigation committee to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the disappearance, including the responsibilities of concerned trekking companies and expedition operators.
Demand for Stronger Safety Regulations in Mountaineering Sector
Emphasizing the importance of human life safety in high-altitude tourism, the Everest Summitter’s Association stated that it remains committed to closely monitoring the safety conditions of workers and climbers in the Himalayan region. The association expressed solidarity with the family of the missing climber and extended support during this difficult time.
It also urged the government to introduce stronger legal and regulatory frameworks to prevent similar incidents in the future, stressing that improved safety governance is essential for protecting lives and maintaining Nepal’s global reputation as a premier mountaineering destination.
Call for Sustainable and Responsible Himalayan Tourism
The association further highlighted that incidents of this nature could have long-term implications for Nepal’s tourism industry if not addressed properly. It stressed that responsible tourism practices, stronger monitoring systems, and strict enforcement of safety protocols are necessary to ensure the well-being of those working in extreme mountain environments.
The statement concluded by reiterating that the association will continue to advocate for climber safety and will remain vigilant in raising concerns related to risks faced in Nepal’s Himalayan regions.
