Himal Press 
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KATHMANDU: Koshi Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki has proposed a new regulation to grant Everest climbing permits only to climbers who have previously scaled at least one peak above 8,000 meters.
During the 71st Everest Day celebrations in Kathmandu on Wednesday, Karki suggested scrapping the existing rule that allows climbers to attempt Everest if they have climbed any peak above 6,000 meters.
Highlighting Nepal’s vulnerability to climate change and the increasing number of climbers on Everest, Karki stressed the need for stricter regulations. “While we have made notable achievements in conserving forest areas, which has greatly relieved our environment, we have failed to take necessary measures for the mountains,” he said. “To preserve the natural state of the mountains, the only solution is to give them rest.”
Chief Minister Karki’s comments come amid growing concerns about the high number of climbers on Everest. Approximately 800 climbers and their support staff attempted the world’s tallest peak this spring.
The first summit of Mt. Everest by Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary on May 29, 1953, is celebrated as Everest Day in many countries.
