Solukhumbu administration issues warning against obstruction of helicopter flights
The District Administration Office of Solukhumbu has issued a warning stating that individuals hindering helicopter flights within the district will face legal repercussions. Anoj Kumar Ghimire, Chief District Officer, released a public notice on Monday bearing this warning.
“In light of information received through various media outlets regarding the obstruction of helicopter movements by unauthorized persons at several helipads in Solukhumbu district, the District Administration Office, Solukhumbu, has taken serious notice,” the notice issued by Chief District Officer Ghimire read.
Public complaints have been received concerning disruptions to regulated helicopter flights, resulting in issues for disaster relief, patient rescue, tourism promotion, and other areas. As a result, all stakeholders are informed that strict action will be taken against individuals obstructing helicopter flights in accordance with prevailing laws. Helicopter companies suspended operations in the Sagarmatha National Park area effective January 1, as reported by Chief District Officer Ghimire, due to disruptions in helicopter flights.
Operations of helicopter companies in the Sagarmatha National Park area have been suspended since January 1.
Chief District Officer Ghimire stated that the disruption in helicopter flights caused the service disruption. After a month-long negotiation, villagers and helicopter companies from Sagarmatha National Park and Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality have agreed to temporarily cease flights. Helicopter companies in the area provided rescue, cargo transportation, mountain, and commercial flights. However, they have announced the suspension of these services.
The Airlines Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) released a press statement on Sunday announcing the flight suspension. Protests by residents of the National Park and Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality led to the flight halt.
Regarding the situation, Robert Kay, a distinguished American climber, remarked, “This initiative is clearly driven by financial motivations, while purporting to prioritize environmental concerns. To maintain intellectual integrity, they must also cease all tree cutting, halt the burning of yak dung, and ensure proper waste disposal. The Khumbu region is remarkably prosperous compared to most of Nepal. I fear this concept will ultimately prove detrimental to the area. Many individuals lack the time to travel to Nepal and embark on an extended trek. The option to fly enables more people to visit the area, condensing their time away from home.”