KATHMANDU: The Government of Nepal has officially implemented the "Adventure Sport Bungee Operation Standards, 2078," introducing a comprehensive set of rules aimed at enhancing safety, standardizing operations, and regulating costs for the popular adventure sport. The new regulations, issued by the Department of Tourism, apply to all bungee operators across the country and are now in effect.

The primary goal of the new standards is to make bungee jumping more systematic, risk-free, and reliable for the thousands of tourists and locals who participate each year. Existing operators have been given a three-month grace period to comply with all provisions, while new companies must adhere to them immediately.

Key highlights of the new regulations include:

Stringent safety and health protocols:

Age and weight limits: Jumpers must be between 16 and 70 years of age and have a body weight between 40 kg and 130 kg.

Mandatory health screening: Operators are now required to conduct pre-jump health checks. Individuals with conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, or who are pregnant are prohibited from jumping.

Qualified jump masters: All sites must employ licensed jump masters with a minimum of five years of experience and international-level training.

Equipment standards: Bungee cords must be of international quality and are to be retired after 500-700 jumps or within six months, whichever comes first. All equipment, including harnesses and ropes, must be stored in temperature-controlled environments.

New operational and financial requirements for companies:

Licensing and bank guarantee: To operate, companies must register with the Department of Tourism and submit a bank guarantee of NPR 10 lakh (1,000,000).

Site exclusivity: To prevent overcrowding and ensure site viability, a minimum distance of 20 kilometers is now required between any two bungee operations.

Environmentala ssessment: Before a license is granted, companies must submit an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) to a government-appointed committee.

Standardized pricing and consumer benefits:

Price cap: The maximum price for a single bungee jump has been capped at NPR 6,000 to ensure price transparency and uniformity.

Discounts for repeat jumps: In a move to reward enthusiasts, operators must offer a 50% discount for a second jump on the same day and a 60% discount for a third. A fourth jump on the same day will be free of charge.

These standards aim to bolster Nepal's reputation as a premier destination for adventure tourism by ensuring that safety and quality are paramount. The Department of Tourism will be responsible for the final interpretation and enforcement of these rules, with provisions for future amendments as needed.

The implementation of these standards marks a significant step in strengthening Nepal’s reputation as a global hub for adventure tourism while prioritizing visitor safety and sustainable practices.