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Solo climbing on Mount Everest banned

FILE - This Oct. 21, 2005 file photo shows Mount Everest from an aerial view taken over Nepal. The Nepali government banned solo climbing on the world’s tallest peak on Dec. 30, 2017. (Jody Kurash / AP)
By Eli Francovich elif@spokesman.com(509) 459-5508

CLIMBING – The Nepali government banned solo climbing on the world’s tallest peak on Dec. 30, 2017.

In addition to Mount Everest solo climbing has been banned on all mountains in Nepal in hopes of reducing accidents, the Kathmandu Post reports. Foreign climbers, regardless of their experience, are now required to travel with Nepali high-altitude guides or climbers. A number of climbers died on or near Mount Everest this season, including well-known Swiss climber Ueli Steck.

The new rule also prohibits blind and double amputee climbers from climbing Mount Everest and other Nepali peaks, the Kathmandu Post reports. Eight of the world’s 10 tallest mountains are in Nepal. A climbing permit for Mount Everest costs $70,000 for a party of seven, or $25,000 for an individual.