Can you shut down a mountain? Apparently you can.
On Friday, April 18, there was an avalanche
on Everest's southern side that killed 16 Sherpas who were
tethered to ropes, preparing the route for mountaineers who were preparing for this year's climb. Thirteen bodies
were recovered, and three others were buried under the debris and may
never be found.
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It was the worst single day accident in the history of Everest. It surpasses the tragedy of which Jake's project is based.
Between 2000 to 2010 only six Sherpas died on the mountain. The number of fatalities has been increasing even before last week's tragedy, with seven Sherpas dying during climbs in 2012 and 2013. The recent increase in fatalities may be due to more people climbing the mountain thus need for more Sherpas.
The Sherpas have closed the 2014 climbing season.
Following a meeting between government officials, Sherpas, and tour operators at Everest base camp, Nepal's tourism ministry said expeditions should proceed. The Sherpas disagree. They have said will not guide anyone up the mountain this year.
Forty teams were prepared to ascend Everest this year. As of this past Thursday, 8 teams have already pulled out. Most teams are in no mood to climb. The number of people at the base camp has already fallen from about 600 to 100.
The ministry also announced this season's climbing permits, which cost between $25,000 and $150,000, will be valid for five years.
What impact will this make on Everest? Will it throw the movie into limbo and push the movie back even farther? Will they try to push through and find someone to guide them? Will they risk cast and crew? Will Jake make a movie about Everest without ever put his foot in Nepal?
