Nepal: Women Embark Everest Expedition For Climate Change Awareness

In a remarkable endeavor to spotlight the alarming impact of climate change on the Himalayas, a team of 30 Nepali women, comprising a diverse group including a beauty queen, politicians, activists, medical professionals, and journalists, is set to converge at the base camp of Mount Everest on March 8, International Women's Day.

Commencing their journey from Kathmandu, the women, fueled by the advocacy organization Sath Sathai, embark on a symbolic pilgrimage. After a night in Manthali, the team travels to Lukla, the gateway to the Everest region. The ultimate goal is to reach Kalapatthar, situated at 5,500 meters, in proximity to the Everest base camp.

Aligned with the theme of International Women's Day 2024, 'Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,' the expedition aims to shed light on the intersection of climate change and women's empowerment. The diverse group highlights the inclusivity of this march, with participants representing various sectors of society.

Miss Nepal World and Diverse Voices Unite

The team includes notable figures such as Miss Nepal World Srichchha Pradhan, contributing to the diversity of voices advocating for climate action. With backgrounds ranging from politics to journalism, the women join forces to address the urgent issue of climate change affecting the Everest region.

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Kalapatthar Gathering: A Rally for Global Awareness

On March 8, the team will converge at Kalapatthar for a special gathering, aiming to capture the attention of national and international communities. This initiative seeks to raise awareness about the dire consequences of climate change in the Everest region and the challenges faced by the mountain communities.

Marching for Change: Interactions with Everest Region Villages

Beyond the symbolic ascent, the women plan to march in the Everest region, engaging in rallies and interactions with local villages. Prajeeta Karki, president of Sath Sathai, emphasises the importance of direct engagement with people along the route to discuss the real impact of climate change on their lives.

A Glacial Warning: ICIMOD's Report on Everest's Melting Glaciers

Underlining the urgency of their mission, the women draw attention to a 2023 report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). The report reveals a concerning trend, with 79 glaciers surrounding Mount Everest thinning by over 100 meters in six decades, intensifying since 2009.

Beyond Everest: Impacts on Mountain Communities

The loss of snow on Everest's glaciers not only affects the Everest region but also has downstream implications. Reduced meltwater in rivers originating from these glaciers poses threats to mountain communities dependent on them, as well as those residing in the plains downstream.

The Nepali Women's Everest Expedition stands as a powerful symbol of unity, diversity, and resilience in the face of climate change. By ascending the heights of Kalapatthar, these women hope to amplify their collective voice and inspire meaningful action for the preservation of the Himalayas and the communities that call it home.