KATHMANDU, April 4: The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) has expressed serious concern over recent media reports alleging food poisoning and misuse of Diamox during Everest expeditions, calling for a thorough investigation.
In a press release issued on Friday, the NMA described the allegations as “unimaginable” for expedition operators and warned that unverified claims could damage Nepal’s global reputation as a leading mountaineering destination.
First Women Journalists Everest Expedition – 2018 in rigorous t...
The NMA urged the government to take strict action if any unethical or inhumane practices are proven, emphasizing that mountain tourism remains the backbone of Nepal’s tourism industry, supporting thousands of guides, entrepreneurs, and climbers.
Highlighting transparency, the NMA encouraged climbers to report any misconduct through liaison officers or directly to authorities, including the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation and the Nepal Police.
The NMA also stressed the need for stronger regulation and monitoring of insurance and rescue operations, calling for clear and transparent procedures to prevent misuse.
Reaffirming Nepal’s mountaineering legacy, the association welcomed climbers for the ongoing Everest season and urged all stakeholders to uphold professionalism and ethical standards.