Nepal's Supreme Court has ordered the government to limit the number of mountaineering permits issued for Everest and other peaks, a lawyer confirmed, just as expeditions prepare for the spring climbing season.

Kathmandu

Nepal's Supreme Court has made a landmark decision to impose limitations on the number of mountaineering permits issued for Everest and other peaks in the country. This decision comes at a time when climbers are gearing up for the spring climbing season. The directive aims to address concerns regarding the environmental impact of climbing on the world's highest mountain and its surrounding areas.

Until now, Nepal has issued permits to anyone willing to climb Everest, contingent upon the payment of an $11,000 fee. This practice is due for a change following the Supreme Court's instructions to reduce the allocation of permits. The move was influenced by environmental concerns, highlighting the need for measures to manage waste and ensure the preservation of the mountain's environment. A lawyer involved in filing the petition for permit limitations stated, "We're pressuring the mountain too much, and we need to give it some respite."

The exact cap on permits has yet to be established. However, it is noted that the number of permits issued last year reached a record high of 478. This decision reflects a growing awareness and response to public concerns over the environmental challenges faced by Nepal, not limited to the mountains. The country is currently experiencing a precarious situation due to a severe wildfire season, with more than 4,500 fires reported this year, a significant increase from previous years. This escalation is attributed to climate change, which has led to drier winters and, consequently, an increase in both the number and intensity of wildfires across the nation.



Nepal's top court orders limit on Everest climbing permits

Nepal currently issues permits to all those who apply to climb Everest, the world's highest mountain, as long as they pay the fee of $11,000. But this is set to change. The country's Supreme Court has instructed the government to curtail the number of mountaineering permits handed out for Everest and other peaks. The court had acted on concerns about the country's environment, according to a lawyer who filed a petition calling for permits to be limited. It's ordered a limit to the number of climbers and also given measures for waste management and preservation of the mountain's environment. We're pressuring the mountain too much and we need to give it some respite. A maximum number of permits is yet to be determined. Last year saw 478 issued for Everest, a record high. Public fears over Nepal's environment are not limited to its mountains, as the country is currently grappling with a severe wildfire season. The country is in a dangerous situation because of wildfires right now. We're devastated by these incidents. There are reports of wildfires from across the country. With climate change resulting in drier winters, the number and intensity of wildfires in the country has increased in recent years. This year, more than 4,500 have been reported, almost double compared to 2023, according to government figures.

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