The function was organized at Hillary Park in Khumjung. On May 29, 1953, Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay set foot on top of the world, capturing the attention of the world. [break]
The government has formed a diamond jubilee celebration committee to organize various programs from 26 to 29 May to commemorate the event.
Speaking at the function in Khumjung organized as part of the 60th anniversary, Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Shushil Ghimire, said that the government was committed to making tourism a sustainable industry.
“With the increase in expedition activities at Mt. Everest, pollution around the mountain has also increased. The government would be implementing programs to clean up the rubbish from around the Everest area and in this it needs ample support from tourism entrepreneurs and locals,” Secretary Ghimire said.
He emphasized the need for ensuring that tourism activities in the mountain area cause minimum harm to environment. Stating that the climate in the mountain region was becoming harsher than in the past, Apa Sherpa, who holds the record of climbing Everest 21 times, requested one and all to unite to maintain ecological balance in the region.
“Vast changes in the climate of the mountain region have occurred between my first ascent in 1990 and the 21st ascent in 2011. All people should be aware of this,” Sherpa said.
A tree planting ceremony was held at the function. Carliele Hillary, vice-chair of the Himalayan Trust and niece of the late Sir Edmund Hillary, planted a tree in the park in memory of her uncle. Government officials, the New Zealand ambassador and other diplomats were among those attending the function.
Related story
Diamond Jubilee celebration of Annapurna ascent underway
