Himal Press 
A chopper sits at the Kalapatthar viewpoint near Everest Base Camp in this recent photo.
Photo Courtesy: Altitude Air
KATHMANDU: Sagarmatha National Park Office has imposed a ban on commercial helicopter flights within its core and buffer zone areas, citing significant threats to the conservation of forests, wildlife, and the overall environment.
“A joint meeting of the Sagarmatha National Park Office, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, the Sagarmatha National Park Buffer Zone Management Committee, and other local stakeholders held on Tuesday decided to ban commercial helicopter flights in the region,” a circular issued by the national park office to helicopter companies reads.
The decision will come into implementation from January 1.
It further added that the decision was taken following concerns over the excessive helicopter flights and landings within the national park and its buffer zone. The national park office has said that the noise pollution caused by these activities has affected local settlements and posed risks to wildlife habitats and ecosystems. “The intense noise pollution in the national park and buffer zone has become a serious issue,” the circular reads. “Additionally, there is a potential for criminal activities related to wildlife poaching and illegal exploitation of forest resources.”
Commercial flights to the Everest region form the major source of revenue for 11 helicopter companies currently in operation.
The national park office has said that it would allow rescue flights in the national park and buffer zone area only after receiving oral and written recommendations from the nearest health post, buffer zone consumer committee, and ward office. Helicopter companies should also provide full details of the individuals in need of rescue. Likewise, fully-equipped helicopters can be operated for such flights.
Similarly, cargo flights can be operated by taking prior approval of the national park office, according to the circular.
