Nepal Reaffirms Commitment to Safeguarding the Himalayas Amid Climate Concerns

Kathmandu, May 27 (PTI) - Nepal has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the Himalayas, whose future stands threatened by climate change and global warming, a senior minister emphasized on Tuesday. Badri Prasad Pandey, Nepal's Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, highlighted the collective responsibility of protecting the Himalayas, noting the government's focus on infrastructure development, mountaineering training, and environmental protection to foster sustainable tourism.

At the Everest Summit Conference, Pandey sounded the alarm on the threats posed by climate change and global warming to the future of the Himalayas, stressing the need for immediate and thoughtful responses to these challenges. Last year, a government-initiated team of soldiers and Sherpas successfully removed 11 tonnes of garbage, alongside four dead bodies and a skeleton, from Mount Everest.

He extended congratulations to successful mountaineers and underscored the significance of preserving Himalayan culture, ensuring the safety of the mountains for future generations. “We are not just here to celebrate the feats of those who have conquered the world’s highest peaks, but to honor their courage, dedication, and determination,” Pandey was quoted by Khabarhub, a digital news platform.

Pandey expressed profound respect for the Sherpa community, mountain guides, rescue teams, and everyone engaged in diligent work across the Himalayan region. “Their commitment has rendered mountain expeditions safer, more environmentally conscious, and more meaningful,” he remarked.

The minister reiterated the government's pledge to boost the prosperity and living standards of local communities. Describing the Himalayas as a bridge of civilization, culture, and coexistence, Pandey passionately stated, “These mountains are sacred, and it is our shared duty to protect them. Now is the time to safeguard these mountains with wisdom, care, and respect.”

Furthermore, the minister honored 10 Indian climbers among over 100 mountaineers in observance of International Everest Day, celebrated on May 29 to commemorate the first ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa of Nepal in 1953. The Mt Everest climbing season typically concludes by the end of May, as weather conditions worsen with the onset of the monsoon season.

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