The dream of scaling Mt. Everest may remain elusive for some aspiring climbers, as Nepalese officials have stated that the country is set to introduce a series of regulations banning inexperienced climbers from attempting the dangerous climb. The move by the Nepalese government was initiated as an attempt to improve the safety and "glory" of the summit, according to The Guardian.
Under the new regulations, anyone who wishes to climb the mountain must first have ample experience, represented by a previous successful climb to a summit that is at least 6,500 meters (about 21,325 feet) high.
Climbers who are disabled, very old, or very young, also face the new restrictions, reports The Nation.
Kripasur Sherpa, Nepal's tourism minister, states that he hopes to implement the new rules in time for the spring season, which usually attracts hundreds of mountaineers from across the world. He also believes that the new restrictions are very well grounded.
"We cannot let everyone go on Everest and die. If they are not physically and mentally fit, it will be like a legal suicide," he said. "The disabled or visually impaired people usually need someone to carry them, which is not an adventure. Only those who can go on their own will be given permission."
The mountaineering industry is a key source of revenue for Nepal, which is the location of the world's 14 peaks over 8,000 meters. With the recent April 25 earthquake, however, the multi-million dollar industry has taken a significant blow, raising fears for the future of the country's tourism industry.
More news about Everest? Click here.
