SHERPA SAFETY
The Kathmandu Post
25
April 2014
SHERPA SAFETY
Ngawan Karsang Sherpa’s article (“Russian
roulette” 23 April, Page 6) should be an eye opener for the
government and all other concerned bodies in terms of taking necessary steps to
address the grievances of Sherpa guides-who are considered to be the back bone
of mountaineering expeditions. The recent disaster on Mount Everest killing at least 16 guides was shocking. Though
climbers have met such fate in the past as well, authorities were neither
serious nor prepared to handle a disaster of the current scale. Sadly in Nepal, unless a major incident occurs, none of
the concerned bodies shows any interest in taking precautionary measures.
This time, Sherpas themselves have raised
their strong voices about their safety on the mountain through a 12-point
demand to the government. It was encouraging to see the government agreeing to
address major demands of mountaineering and guides associations. Time has come
for the government and other concerned authorities to be sincere in
appreciating Sherpas’ contribution towards Everest expedition and to extend
support for their safety and social securities.
Rai Biren Bangdel
Maharajgunj.
