Nepal's authorities have proposed requiring climbers to summit a 7,000-meter peak in the country before attempting Mount Everest, but the bill has not yet been voted on and no changes are expected this season. Mount Everest stands at about 8,800 meters, and ascents have surged dramatically in recent decades. According to TV4 Nyheterna, mountaineer Renata Chlumska noted that the number of ascents has exploded in the last two decades, with nearly 9,000 summits in that period compared to about 1,200 until 1999.
Everest is a critical income source for Nepal, and opening more mountains for climbing generates new revenue, Chlumska added. However, she cautioned that a 7,000-meter peak does not automatically provide the experience needed for Everest, as some such peaks are not technically difficult. The proposal might not be the only solution, with more measures likely needed.
No amateurs should be allowed to take on Mount Everest. It has been limited before who gets to go up the mountain, and how many above all. So at least 7,000, but I would almost want to say that you should have an 8,000-meter mountain under your belt before you set off on Mount Everest.
It has exploded in the last two decades.
Nepal has realized that something must be done and that opening up for more mountains that people must climb also benefits. It also becomes new revenue.
But there are mountains that are not so technically difficult, that are at 7,000 meters. It does not automatically mean that you have the experience needed to take on Mount Everest. This might not be the only solution. More is probably needed.
I was very prepared. I had been on a mountain in Tibet that is 8,016 meters and reached the forepeak there. So I had been at 8,006 meters before.