Everest climbing

This refers to the report, "Nepal changes Everest climbing route" (Feb.19). Safety should be the prime criteria for any policy on routes to climb Everest.  Recently, there have been instances of avalanches, resulting in deaths of Everest climbers and the Nepali sherpas refusing to act as helpers for climbers. The lives of Nepali sherpas are not cheap and they need to be protected. Provisions should also be made for quick rescue operations for Everest climbers and those who accompany them as helpers.  

Deendayal M. Lulla
On e-mail