March 30, Kathmandu.
Khumbu Pasang Rural Municipality in the Everest region has announced new rules, easing some activities around the natural wonder. Here’s a highlight of the new Base Camp Management Procedure 2024 of the rural municipality:
No business ventures at the Base Camp
The new regulation has explicitly prohibited operating business ventures such as bars, spas, bakeries, and cafes within the Everest Base Camp Area.
No more than 15 members
The new regulation has allowed a maximum of 15 members in an expedition team. The number of supporters, however, may be set as required.
The latest provision clarifies that each expedition team, comprising a maximum of 15 members, can enlist as many high-altitude and base camp workers as needed.
Set up toilet tents, carry a poop bag
The new rule has strictly prohibited setting up a toilet inside a tent. An expedition team may set up a maximum of four toilet tents, two shower tents, and two additional urinary tents.
Anyone going beyond the base camp will not be allowed to leave their poop. They are obliged to carry it back in a biodegradable bag for disposal.
Friends and family can wait
The new regulation has continued to bar trekkers and general visitors from staying overnight at the Base Camp. However, family members, relatives, well-wishers, medical personnel, friends, managers, and sponsors of the Everest expedition members are allowed to stay overnight. The rule has allowed using a 60 square feet area for dining and an 80 square feet area for sleeping quarters per individual.
A blend of traditional and modern transportation
Under normal conditions, the rural municipality has emphasised using local porters and yaks for carrying expedition equipment. However, the local agency has decided to allow the transportation of such equipment by helicopter upon approval. The Base Camp will feature three helipads for emergency purposes.
A check-in system in place
The local authority has announced a check-in system that will help track the climbers’ status beyond the Base Camp. Entry of expedition logistics during check-in is also a must.
Bring back the logistic items and waste
Expedition teams are not allowed to leave their logistics at high-altitude camps. Each team member climbing Mt Everest, Mt Lhotse, and Mt Nuptse is required to bring back garbage weighing a minimum of eight kilograms. The minimum garbage figure is only three kilograms for Mt Ama Dablam. Agencies will be given a ‘Garbage Clearance Letter’ only after they properly dispose the waste.