Mount Everest’s First Ascent Team Member Expresses Concern Over Mountain’s Current State – Sky Bulletin
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The last living climber from the pioneering Mount Everest expedition that reached the summit in 1953 is raising concerns about the over-crowding and pollution on the peak. At 91 years of age, Kanchha Sherpa speaks from a position of experience and respect for the mountain revered by his community as a deity.
During an interview in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, Kanchha Sherpa expressed dismay at the mountain’s present state: “Right now there is always a big crowd of people at the summit. It would be better for the mountain to reduce the number of climbers.”
In the years following the historical ascent by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, Everest has seen thousands reach its summit. The 2023 spring climbing season alone witnessed 667 climbers scaling Everest, accompanied by a considerable number of support staff residing at base camp from March through May.
Despite concerns over the environmental impact, the Nepalese authorities have not indicated any intention of reducing permit issuance for climbers. Regulations exist mandating that climbers remove their trash and equipment from the mountain; however, effective enforcement remains a challenge.
“It is very dirty now. People throw tins and wrappings after eating food…Some climbers just dump their trash in the crevasse,” explained Kanchha, emphasizing the Sherpa’s view of Everest as Qomolangma, the goddess mother of the world, which should be kept pristine.
Reflecting on his youth and participation in the historic Hillary-Tenzing climb, Kanchha Sherpa recalls the expedition with pride, aware that the route they charted is still the path followed by today’s climbers, with the exception of the segment over the Khumbu Icefall that changes annually.
As the matriarch of a family that includes children, grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter, Kanchha resides in Namche village near Mount Everest, where he and his family run a small hotel that services trekkers and climbers.
FAQ Section
Who is Kanchha Sherpa?
Kanchha Sherpa is the last surviving member of the first expedition team that successfully summited Mount Everest in 1953.
What are Kanchha Sherpa’s concerns about Mount Everest?
Kanchha Sherpa is concerned about the excessive crowding and the pollution caused by climbers on Mount Everest, remarking that it disrespects the mountain, which is considered a deity.
How many climbers reached Everest’s summit in the spring season of 2023?
During the spring season of 2023, 667 climbers reached the summit of Mount Everest.
Has the Nepalese government made any changes to the permit system for Everest climbers?
As of now, the Nepalese government has not announced any plans to change the permit system or limit the number of climbers permitted to summit Everest.
What was the celebration like after the first successful ascent in 1953?
The team celebrated the successful ascent of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay at Camp 2 with tea and snacks, as they had no alcohol. The team then gathered their equipment and returned to base camp.
Conclusion
The legacy of Kanchha Sherpa’s historic ascent with the 1953 Everest expedition endures, even as he voices his concerns for the future of the sacred peak. At 91, his unique perspective offers a stark contrast between the maiden summit and the mountain’s contemporary reality of crowding and littering. It’s a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human ambition and environmental stewardship. While the thrill of climbing the highest peak on Earth remains a powerful draw for many, Kanchha Sherpa’s insights suggest that preserving the sanctity and cleanliness of the revered Qomolangma is an imperative that all climbers and responsible authorities should uphold.
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