KATHMANDU, June 1 (Xinhua) -- Amid the concerns about increased deaths in Mount Qomolangma this season, an experienced expedition doctor has urged the climbers to have better preparation for the mountain, instead of full dependence upon Sherpa guides.
Dr. Nima Namgyal Sherpa, who has been operating expeditions for nine years, said, "Train yourself and come prepared. Do lots of research and gain prior experience of climbing. Do not depend 100 percent on Sherpas, they can help you but they are not God who can take guarantee to save your lives."
The Alpine specialist said a climber should at least have basic skills of mountaineering, first aid, rescue in the high mountains and the ability to take right decision at the right time and place.
"Climbing Qomolangma is not a walk in the park. There is a different world out there above 8,000 meters. Sherpas are there to support but they cannot carry climbers to the top. It is the climber who has to take the steps, one step at a time," he added.
At least nine people, including some experienced climbers, lost their lives in Qomolangma this year, majority died during their descend from the top of peak, raising the safety issues and lack of efficient management by the authorities.
"Mountaineering culture is different in different mountains. Mountains of west are far different than the Himalayas. Thus for Qomolangma, having a prior experience of climbing at least 8,000 meters high mountain can lessen a lot of risks," Nima, who is with Kaitu Expeditions, told Xinhua.
He further shared that even an experienced climber should carry a mind set of climbing a new mountain or starting off a new journey before setting their feet on base camp.
The medical professional suggested that the Nepal government should raise the standards in regard to the prior experience of climbers, while the operating agencies should filter their clients in order to minimize casualties.
With a spread of photos and videos in social media, traffic jam has been portrayed as the major cause of deaths which made the climbers wait for hours in a single rope above 8,000 meters amid thin weather compelling them to lose their energy level.
However, the doctor who successfully led a team of 29 members including 12 Chinese climbers to the top of world's roof on May 22, said the expedition members must have a backup plan.
"Every year, the crowd in mountain is almost the same and climbers are well aware of the consequences. It is necessary to have back up plans including additional oxygen cylinders and support guides," the mountaineer said.
But Nima frankly accepts that climbing Qomolangma is also about luck sometimes, as every climber knows the extreme mountain holds the risk of life and death. "Some are lucky, some are not. That's the only difference."
