The recent death of a 46-year-old Indian climber, Banshi Lal, in a Kathmandu hospital adds to the toll of fatalities on Mount Everest this climbing season, bringing the total to eight. Lal was airlifted from Everest last week and admitted to the hospital, where he passed away. Rakesh Gurung from the Nepali tourism department confirmed the news.
Among the fatalities this season are also three individuals—a British climber and two Nepali guides—who are missing but presumed dead.
Despite the relatively lower death toll compared to previous years, this season has seen several tragedies. Last year marked the deadliest season on record with 18 fatalities.
In addition to the deaths on Everest, three climbers died while attempting other Nepali peaks: a Romanian aiming for Lhotse, a French climber, and a Nepali climber on Makalu.
The fatalities occurred above 8,000 meters (26,200 feet) in the "death zone," where thin air and low oxygen levels increase the risk of altitude sickness.
Despite the risks, climbers have set records this year. Nepali climber Phunjo Lamam achieved the fastest ascent of Everest by a woman, reaching the summit in 14 hours and 31 minutes. Additionally, Kami Rita Sherpa summited Everest for a record 30th time.
Nepal issued over 900 climbing permits this year, including 419 for Everest, generating significant revenue. More than 600 climbers and their guides have already summited Everest this season.
In a significant development, China reopened the Tibetan route to foreign climbers for the first time since closing it in 2020 due to the Coronavirus pandemic, providing more opportunities for mountaineers.
