PM Oli addresses Everest pollution and mismanagement concerns

May 30, Kathmandu: Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has said the government is committed to preserving Everest’s dignity and making mountaineering safer and cleaner by addressing rising pollution and mismanagement.

Speaking at the Summit of Summiteers conference on International Everest Day on Thursday, PM Oli highlighted waste as a major challenge, noting that despite two cleanup campaigns, the mountain still needed continuous efforts and stricter rules, like requiring climbers to return all waste to base camp.

He also revealed plans to amend climbing laws to manage overcrowding and ensure ascents weren’t oversimplified, cautioning against treating Everest lightly.

PM Oli invited suggestions from stakeholders like the Nepal Mountaineering Association, emphasising the government’s aim to improve without vested interests.

He also urged against doping, citing reports of climbers using performance-enhancing drugs, and stressed maintaining Everest’s prestige.