Kathmandu: Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak and Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Badri Pande, arrived at Sagarmatha base camp today. They reached Khumbu Pasanglhamu rural municipality-4 by helicopter to examine the challenges related to mountain climbing, tourism, and the peace and security situation in the area. The ministers aimed to gain a better understanding of rescue operations, mountaineer support, and tourist convenience.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Home Minister Lekhak emphasized the necessity of helicopters for tourists during emergencies, stating that the government has implemented policies to ensure tourist convenience. However, he also stressed the importance of curbing helicopter misuse. Tourism Minister Pande highlighted the government’s commitment to tourism development. He noted that in light of the Sagarmatha region’s significance as a global destination, necessary infrastructures and management strategies would be established. He assured that attention would be paid to the problems faced by local residents and tourists, with the government taking steps to address these concerns.
During the visit, tourism entrepreneurs and stakeholders presented recommendations to the ministers for comprehensive management of the Sagarmatha region. They called for improved road access, enhanced communication services at the base camp, upgrading of the Lukla-Khumbu roadway, increased emergency helicopter services, and the creation of a climbers’ welfare fund. Additionally, record-setting climber Kami Rita Sherpa and other representatives requested an increase in contact officers and a five-year extension for the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee to oversee activities including road construction oversight in the Khumbu region.