Excessive number of tourists create avalanche fears on Mount Everest
A guide said 'the vibrations caused by helicopters can crack ice blocks and snow packs on mountains'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Excessive sightseeing helicopter flights over the upper reaches of Mount Everest are causing avalanche concerns.
A series of disasters have halted Everest expeditions for the last two years.
In 2014, sixteen Sherpas were killed by an avalanche that swept down a climbing route. Last year, at least 18 climbers died at Base Camp after an earthquake triggerd an avalanche.
While tourist flights are not allowed to fly above Base Camp, which is at an altitude of 5,364 metres (17,000ft), a BBC investigation found tourist companies fly over the Khumbu Icefall.
Concerned mountain guides told the BBC they fear "that the vibrations caused by helicopters can crack ice blocks and snow packs on mountains overlooking the Khumbu Icefall".
"Pasang Kaji Sherpa, a mountain guide with a military expedition team now on Everest, said: "There is a deep-seated fear among Sherpa porters that they may be hit by avalanches this year as well and these helicopters are increasing fears."
However, airline officials insist there is no danger, as their helicopters fly 2,340 feet above the ground and maintain at least 1km distance from the mountains.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has since warned airlines not to conduct flights over the Khumbu Icefall.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments