Kathmandu — Nepal is gearing up to introduce a significant safety measure aimed at improving rescue operations for climbers tackling the formidable challenge of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. Beginning this Spring, all climbers embarking on the ascent or descent of the 8,849-meter (29,032 ft) mountain will be required to carry an electronic chip, marking a pivotal step towards ensuring safer expeditions in the treacherous terrain.

The government is currently in the process of formulating regulations that will enforce the mandatory use of these electronic chips. Anticipated to take effect from the upcoming Spring season, coinciding with the commencement of the climbing season on Mount Everest, this measure aims to enhance safety during the limited window suitable for ascending to extreme altitudes.

During the Spring season, which witnesses the narrow climbing window, thousands of climbers from around the world, including India and Nepal, are drawn to Mount Everest, known as Sagarmatha in Nepali. While many achieve the summit successfully, incidents of fatalities and serious injuries have been reported over the years, highlighting the inherent risks associated with high-altitude mountaineering.

According to Nepal government data since 1953, approximately 300 individuals have lost their lives on Mount Everest. In the Spring season of 2023 alone, up to May 22, 12 climbers, including nationals from Nepal, India, and China, succumbed to various challenges during expeditions to the peak.

Addressing safety concerns, the Nepali government plans to distribute electronic chips to climbers at a nominal cost, estimated to range between USD 10 to USD 15. Rakesh Gurung, Director at the Department of Tourism, emphasized that equipping climbers with these chips, integrated into their jackets, will not only contribute to safer expeditions but also streamline emergency rescue operations.

Several reputable climbing agencies have already embraced this safety measure by providing electronic chips to their climbers ahead of the official implementation of the regulation. This proactive approach underscores Nepal’s commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of climbers venturing into the Himalayas, reaffirming its status as a premier destination for mountaineering enthusiasts worldwide.