In a remarkable feat, Mount Everest has witnessed its highest single-day summit count, with 274 climbers reaching the peak from Nepal, breaking the previous record of 223 set in 2019. This historic achievement coincided with an optimal weather window, enabling climbers to ascend safely.
Officials from Nepal's tourism department confirmed this notable accomplishment. Mount Everest, with its height of 8,849 metres, straddles the border of Nepal and China's Tibet region. However, this year climbers could only ascend from the Nepali side, as climbing permits for Tibet were not issued by Chinese authorities.
Images from the mountain depict long lines of climbers navigating towards the summit ridge. Experts are increasingly sounding alarms over overcrowding in the "death zone" above 8,000 metres, where low oxygen levels and rapidly changing weather conditions pose significant dangers.
Authorities emphasize that congestion near the summit increases the risk of fatigue, frostbite, oxygen scarcity, and various delays that can lead to tragic outcomes. There is rising concern among mountaineers and guides regarding the increasing commercialization of Everest during peak seasons.
To address safety worries, Nepal has enacted stricter regulations and raised permit fees to enhance crowd management and the safety of expeditions. Officials are intensifying their oversight of climber movements to mitigate risks at altitude.
Nonetheless, Everest remains a magnet for climbers worldwide, with many aspiring to conquer the iconic peak. Officials anticipate that the summit count may still rise, as some teams have yet to report their successful ascents back to base camp.
This record underscores not only the enduring global allure of Mount Everest but also the ongoing challenges Nepal faces in reconciling tourism, adventure demands, and ensuring climber safety on the world’s most renowned mountain.
