Adventurers hoping to climb the world's highest peak will now have to comply with a new safety requirement, according to Nepalese authorities.
This spring, when peak season begins, all climbers who climb or descend Mount Everest will be required to wear an electronic chip with GPS tracking capability sewn into their jackets, Rakesh Gurung, director of Nepal's Ministry of Tourism, told CNN. The tracking chip facilitates search and rescue missions that can cost up to tens of thousands of dollars.
“Reputable companies were already using it, but now it is mandatory for all climbers,” said Gurung.
Nepal's Ministry of Tourism did not respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.
The chips will cost hikers about $10 to $15 to rent and return after hopefully completing the challenging 29,032-foot mountain.
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Nepal, home to eight of the world's highest peaks, relies on mountaineering tourism to boost its Himalayan economy. Hikers who climb the peak help provide vital income to rural villages by employing guides.
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Last year's summit season was considered the mountain's second deadliest season. Out of 677 trekkers in 2023, there were 18 deaths, according to the Himalayan database, which tracks the summits of various Himalayan peaks.
Rescues are treacherous on Mount Everest, especially above 27,200 feet, the so-called “death zone,” where temperatures are dangerously cold and oxygen is scarce. In May 2023, it took Sherpas six hours of walking to rescue a Malaysian hiker in the “death zone.” The guide carried the man on his back until a helicopter could lift the hiker from Camp III, about 23,497 feet high.
The Nepalese government banned solo trekking on Mount Everest last spring to make the summit safer. The country also increased the cost of permits for non-locals by 36% to $15,000.
Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at kwong@usatoday.com.
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