Just In: Sons of Edmund Hillary & Tenzing Norgay Celebrated 70 Years Since First Everest Summit

The sons of legendary mountaineers Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay Sherpa took the helm in Nepal to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the historic first ascent of Mount Everest. The monumental feat on May 29, 1953, forever changed the world of mountaineering, propelling the New Zealander and his Nepalese guide to global fame.

Since that groundbreaking achievement, over 6,000 climbers have successfully scaled the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) peak, according to the Himalayan Database. However, the challenging nature of the mountain has resulted in more than 300 fatalities over the past seven decades, including 12 tragic deaths this year. Five individuals remain missing, making 2023 a potentially record-breaking year in fatalities.

Despite the inherent dangers, the climbing industry has experienced rapid growth, significantly contributing to Nepal's revenue. The country currently imposes an $11,000 Everest permit fee on foreign climbers. This surge in tourism has not only supported the economy but has also prompted the development of infrastructure and facilities for visitors.

To mark the anniversary, family members of both Hillary and Tenzing, along with local residents and officials, gathered at a school on Monday morning. They inaugurated the Sir Edmund Hillary Visitors Centre, housed in the original building established in 1961. A ceremonial lighting of butter lamps took place in front of a photograph of Hillary and Tenzing, and their sons, Peter Hillary and Jamling Norgay, symbolically cut a red ribbon, officially opening the doors to the centre.

Simultaneously, a newly renovated museum dedicated to Tenzing Norgay Sherpa was unveiled in Namche Bazaar, the most significant tourist hub along the route to Everest Base Camp.

In Kathmandu, government officials and hundreds from the mountaineering community gathered for a rally adorned with celebratory banners. During the event, esteemed Nepali climbers, including Kami Rita Sherpa, who holds the record for the most Everest ascents, were honoured in a special ceremony.

Sanu Sherpa, the only person to have climbed the world's 14 highest peaks twice, seized the opportunity to call upon the government for increased support to the Sherpa community. Sherpa emphasized the immense risks these guides undertake, who carry equipment and food, fix ropes, and repair ladders on the treacherous mountain. Advocating for educating children whose parents perished in the mountains, Sherpa expressed the hope that the government would extend its assistance to the Sherpa community.

As Nepal commemorated this significant milestone in mountaineering history, the celebrations highlighted the triumphs and challenges associated with scaling the world's highest peak, emphasizing the need for continued support, safety measures, and recognition of those who make such extraordinary endeavours possible.

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