June 06, 2023: During the season’s first Mount Everest expedition on March 29th, three Sherpas were lost due to an avalanche in the Khumbu Icefall. The Department of Tourism has reported that the condition and whereabouts of these three Sherpas still remain unknown.
Yuvraj Khatiwada, the Director of the Department of Tourism, expressed his concern for the missing Sherpas during a press conference. He emphasized the urgency of the situation and highlighted the need to locate and rescue the Sherpas. Despite the Sherpas being equipped with safety gear and following established protocols, the unpredictable nature of the geographical and weather conditions in the area has hindered their rescue efforts.
The accident occurred at an altitude of 5,700 meters (18,700 feet), and among the missing individuals are Tenjing Sherpa, 32 years old, Rita Sherpa, 21 years old, and Badure Sherpa, 45 years old. They were employed as guides by the expedition organizers for the Mount Everest expedition. Director Khatiwada explained that due to the challenging geographic and climatic complexities at that particular location, the possibility of their survival is uncertain.
The Khumbu Icefall is considered one of the most dangerous sections of the Mount Everest route, with numerous crevasses and constantly shifting ice formations. It requires careful navigation and carries inherent risks. Despite the risks involved, mountaineers and Sherpa guides continue to undertake these expeditions, driven by their passion for adventure and the allure of reaching the world’s highest peak.
Rescue teams have been mobilized to search for the missing Sherpas, but the operation is being hampered by the treacherous conditions in the area. The Department of Tourism, along with other concerned authorities, is closely monitoring the situation and providing support to the search and rescue teams.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that climbers and guides face during Mount Everest expeditions. It underscores the importance of comprehensive safety measures, continuous monitoring of weather conditions, and meticulous planning to mitigate risks and ensure the well-being of all those involved in such endeavors. As efforts to locate the missing Sherpas continue, the mountaineering community mourns this unfortunate incident and hopes for their safe return.
