KATHMANDU: A 51-year-old woman from the remote Himalayan region of Sankhuwasabha was airlifted to Kathmandu for free medical treatment after she developed serious health complications.

Pasang Lhamu Sherpa of Bhote Khola Rural Municipality–4, Mangkhem, was rescued on Sunday after noted mountaineer and tourism entrepreneur Mingma Sherpa arranged a helicopter evacuation, citing the absence of road connectivity and limited health facilities in the area.

According to locals, helicopter rescue remained the only option to ensure timely medical care. The evacuation was carried out through Heli Everest, which transported Sherpa safely to Kathmandu, where arrangements have been made for her treatment at no cost.

A resident of Makalu Rural Municipality–1, Walung, Mingma Sherpa is widely known for his humanitarian initiatives in remote mountain regions. He has previously supported several rescue missions and medical assistance efforts for underprivileged and vulnerable communities in high-altitude areas.

Sources close to the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) said the party is preparing to field Sherpa as a candidate from Sankhuwasabha in the upcoming elections. He recently joined the party and has launched his election campaign in the district.

Chairman of Seven Summit Treks, Mingma Sherpa is among Nepal’s most accomplished climbers. He is the first Nepali and the first South Asian to summit all 14 peaks above 8,000 metres without repetition, setting a historic world record. Along with his brother Chhang Dawa Sherpa, he also holds the unique distinction of being part of the world’s first pair of brothers to climb all 14 eight-thousanders, a feat unmatched in mountaineering history.

Party leaders believe his extensive experience in tourism, adventure sports and local development could offer a new political alternative for Sankhuwasabha.