KATHMANDU: The Himalayan Rescue Association Nepal (HRA) has received a fresh consignment of mountain rescue equipment from the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), a significant boost to ongoing efforts to enhance the safety of trekkers and climbers in Nepal’s high-altitude regions.

The equipment was handed over during a ceremony held at the NTB office in Bhrikutimandap on Thursday. Both organisations said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening rescue capacity in the Everest and Annapurna regions—two of the country’s busiest and most challenging trekking corridors.

According to HRA, the rescue equipment will significantly strengthen HRA’s capacity to carry out life-saving missions whenever needed.

NTB Chief Executive Officer Deepak Raj Joshi said the Board has been consistently prioritising the safety of mountain visitors. “Nepal’s Himalayas are a global attraction. Nepal Tourism Board remains fully committed to ensuring the safety of climbers and tourists visiting these mountains. We also see our cooperation with the Rescue Association as contributing to the sustainability of Himalayan tourism,” he said.

NTB Board Member Narendra Dev Bhatt underscored that rescue operations are vital not only as emergency responses but also for maintaining Nepal’s credibility as a global adventure tourism destination. Executive Committee Member Rishi Bhandari added that safety in the Himalayan region must go hand in hand with environmental sensitivity, noting that such support promotes responsible tourism.

Receiving the equipment, HRA President Dambar Parajuli thanked the Board for its continued support. “Rescue equipment is extremely essential when working in challenging regions like Everest and Annapurna. This support from the Board will make our rescue operations more effective and prompt,” he said.

According to NTB, the newly provided equipment included 20 carabiners, 4 mechanical ascenders, 5 descenders, 4 pulleys, 5 slings, 5 ice screws and pickets, 4 belay devices, 4 anchors, and 5 sleeping bags.

The handover event was attended by HRA Chairman Parajuli, HRA CEO Govinda Basyal, members of the secretariat, NTB Board Members, NTB CEO Joshi, senior directors and officers from the Board, and professionals working in mountain tourism. The programme was facilitated by NTB Senior Officer Siddhartha Bishwakarma.

NTB said it plans to further strengthen rescue and safety infrastructure in the Himalayas through expanded cooperation with the private sector and local communities.