Mount Everest

Last Survivor of 1953 Expedition Voices Concern Over Pollution on Mount Everest

Kanchha Sherpa, the 91-year-old lone survivor of the 1953 Mount Everest expedition, voiced concerns about overcrowding and pollution on the mountain. He emphasized the spiritual significance of Everest to the Sherpa people and called for a reduction in climbers. In spring 2023, 667 climbers scaled the peak with thousands of support staff. Despite rules requiring climbers to bring down rubbish, enforcement has been lax, leading to litter. Kanchha Sherpa runs a hotel in Namche and recalled the historic expedition. He urged immediate action to preserve Everest.