NEPAL PROBES USE OF XENON GAS BY BRITISH CLIMBERS ON EVEREST

ISTANBUL, May 23 (Bernama-Anadolu) -- Nepal is investigating the use of xenon gas by four British Army veteran climbers during their recent ascent of Mount Everest, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported citing a Kathmandu Post’s report.

Nepal’s Department of Tourism issued a statement on Thursday acknowledging media reports on the achievement by the former special forces members.

“We are currently engaging with the expedition team leaders, members, and the associated agencies to gather detailed information and conduct a thorough study and analysis of this matter,” it said.

The four veterans, dubbed the “Xenon Climbers,” became the first to reach Everest’s summit using xenon gas therapy, achieving the feat on Wednesday.

The team included Alastair Carns, a Member of Parliament and Minister for Veterans at the UK Ministry of Defence, along with Garth Miller, Anthony Stazicker and Kev Godlington.

They reportedly inhaled xenon gas in Germany prior to the climb, enabling them to reach the 8,848-metre (29,000-feet) peak in under five days, without undergoing the traditional weeks-long acclimatisation process.

The use of xenon gas, thought to prevent altitude sickness and mitigate low-oxygen effects, has sparked controversy within the mountaineering community.

The International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) has voiced concerns over the lack of scientific evidence supporting xenon’s efficacy at high altitudes and its potential health risks, including effects on the brain and respiratory system.

-- BERNAMA-ANADOLU