KATHMANDU: The Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality has issued an urgent safety notice for trekkers, guides, and porters using the Khongma La Pass — also known as Dolmi Ri — following a rise in fatalities on the high-altitude glacial route in recent years.

According to the notice, the glacial trail section connecting Chhukung to Lobuche along the Khongma La Pass route has become increasingly unpredictable due to shifting glacier conditions, with the trekking path changing annually.

The section typically takes around six hours to traverse; however, the rural municipality has flagged a recurring pattern in the incidents: trekkers frequently reach the glacial section in a state of exhaustion, which significantly increases the risk of losing the correct route toward Lobuche.

Acting on the recommendation of the Lobuche Development Community, the rural municipality has called on all trekkers and support staff to strictly follow safety protocols, seek proper guidance before attempting the route, remain on designated trails at all times, and exercise maximum caution throughout the crossing.

The notice also highlights that Khongma La Pass is a sacred Buddhist site in the Everest region and advises trekkers to respect local customs by moving clockwise around religious areas.

"Failure to follow safety measures may result in serious risks to life," the notice states.

The warning was issued by Chief Administrative Officer Nabaraj Gautam and is directed at all individuals using the route during the current spring trekking and climbing season.