Concern over coronavirus outbreaks on Mount Everest is leading China to draw a 'separation line' on top of the mountain to prevent contact with climbers from the Nepal side.
A Norwegian climber tested positive for COVID-19 on Mount Everest in late April, and now China says it will be drawing a"separation line" to try to curb the spread of the virus from climbers going up the Nepal side of the world's highest mountain, ChineseThe"separation line" will prevent those climbing China's side of the mountain to cross it, stopping them from coming in contact with anyone or anything from Nepal's side.
"The idea that anyone with coronavirus could even reach the summit is impossible because climbers with any respiratory difficulties will just not be able to reach the altitude," mountaineering expert Ang Tshering Sherpa told theAs COVID-19 cases and deaths in Nepal reach record highs, officials have not yet responded to China's decision and have declined to discuss virus outbreaks on Mount Everest.
Both countries suspended the climbing season on the world's highest mountain last year due to the pandemic. Nepal has issued permits allowing 408 foreigners to attempt climbs this year as it tries to boost tourism revenue.said 21 Chinese climbers were approved to attempt to reach the summit from the northern slope. A separate group of 17 climbers has also received permits to hike on the northern slope.
While China has mostly curbed domestic transmission of the virus, Nepal is experiencing a surging outbreak. Most major cities and towns are under lockdown and all domestic and international flights are grounded.
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