Nepal is considering making it mandatory for foreigners to be accompanied by at least one local guide for mountain climbing and trekking expeditions, a move aimed at minimising mishaps involving solo climbers.
"As there are incidents of missing trekkers and climbers as well as mountain-related accidents involving solo climbers, we are floating the idea of local guides accompanying foreigners during expeditions," said Ang Tshering Sherpa, president of Nepal Mountaineering Association, a private body that is responsible for regulating mountaineering in the country.
In case of Mt Everest, a climber should be accompanied by a mountain guide and in case of mountains less than 8000 metres of height, there should be at least one guide for two climbers, he added.
"As we have noticed many incidents taking place and sometimes trekkers have gone missing if tourists are not accompanied by local guides. The idea has been floated for the safety and security of foreign climbers and also to protect the local environment," he said.
Foreign trekkers should also be accompanied by at least one local guide, he added.
This will not only ensure safety for the climbers and protect the environment, but also serve as an income- generating opportunity for local people, Sherpa pointed out.
He said it had not been made mandatory, but we are encouraging such practices from now onwards.
He, however, added that the idea is being discussed with authorities concerned to make regulations for discouraging solo climbers.
"No matter how brave the foreign climbers or trekkers are, they cannot be as competent as the local guide so we are floating this idea," he pointed out.
The proposal comes ahead of the start of the climbing season late next month.
Also, last year, a fight took place on the Everest between three European climbers and local guides.
