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More than Thousand Climbers Perish in Mountains in a Century

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More than Thousand Climbers Perish in Mountains in a Century
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May 31: Ever since the mountains of Nepal were opened for expedition some 114 years ago, a total of 1097 people have lost their lives in their bid to climb mountains in country, which is a home to some of the towering peaks of the world including the highest mountain – Mt Everest.

The death toll includes expedition members climbing mountains above 5,000 metres. Some died while trying to climb while others died on their way back from the summit, according to government authorities.

During this climbing season, altogether 17 climbers died on different mountains including Everest, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Lhotse between May 14 to 27.

The spring season is considered the best season for climbing mountains because of the favourable weather conditions. However, the number of casualties is high during this very season, according to the data provided by the Department of Tourism.

Climbers also attempt climbing mountains during the autumn season.

The first ever death while climbing mountain in Nepal was recorded in 1905. However, the identities of the climbers who died while climbing Mt Kanchenjunga have not been ascertained yet. The department has proper records of the deaths that occurred in expedition from 1921 onward.

Stakeholders say that most of the casualties occur due to inadequate preparation and natural calamities.

“The climbers are themselves to blame for the deaths,” said Phurba Tenzing Sherpa, who has climbed Everest 14 times.

According to Sherpa, inadequate training accounts for more deaths than adverse weather condition and traffic jam on Everest.

He says that climbers must first succeed in climbing small peaks and then only attempt climbing Everest or other high mountains.

“Just paying the royalty is not enough. One needs proper training to climb the highest mountains,” said Sherpa.

Santabir Lama, chairman of Nepal Mountaineering Association, also says that many climbers who want instant fame end up being killed in the unforgiving terrain of the mountains due to lack of adequate preparation.

The government should not give climbing permits just because the foreigners are willing to pay hefty amount, argues Lama.

“If the government sets clear criteria for climbing, it will surely bring down the death toll.”

 

 

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