China closed tourist access to the scenic areas of Mount Everest or Mount Qomolangma, the northern face of Mt Everest, following a devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Dingri County in Tibet on Tuesday. The region, home to the Everest Base Camp, experienced significant tremors at 9:05 am Beijing Time, resulting in widespread damage.
Earthquake in Dingri: Impact and Safety Measures
The earthquake killed over 90 and injured 62, according to the regional disaster relief authorities. Local officials informed that, in spite of the calamity, staff and tourists in the region are safe. The key tourist infrastructure, such as hotel buildings situated near Mount Qomolangma remained intact structurally.
The Qomolangma Station for Atmospheric and Environmental Research, based in Dingri, lost electricity. But facilities at the station remained intact with little disruption to scientific research.
Weather conditions are still harsh, ranging from minus 18°C to zero in Dingri, complicating the relief efforts.
Tourism on Scenic Areas of Mount Everest Pauses Amid Recovery Efforts After Earthquake
Mount Qomolangma, which lies on the border between China and Nepal, is one of the most visited places by international tourists. The northern face is located in Tibet’s Xizang region and attracts thousands of tourists every year.
As of 2024, some 13,700 international visitors came to visit the Chinese side of Everest, again a high of over twice the visitors received in 2023. Visiting nations are mainly Singapore, Malaysia, Germany, and France.
The temporary closure is to ensure safety while assessing damage and restoring infrastructure. There has been no announcement for the reopening of the scenic areas.
As relief efforts continue, China is still focused on protecting its citizens as well as international tourists who come to this famous peak.
Watch the Video as the Earthquake in Tibet Kills People
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