Nepalese Sherpas allowed to Pakistan after quarantine

June 9, 2021June 9, 2021 Dean

Nepalese Sherpas will be allowed into Pakistan for the Summer climbing season – if they abide by the guidelines set by the ‘National Command and Operation Centre’ (NCOC).

The ‘Guidelines for Reopening Tourism’, issued on 9th June, state that high-altitude porters may be allowed into Pakistan through exemptions, if a set of stringent protocols are also followed.

The statement reads:

Subject:

Promotion of Safe Tourism — Permission to Nepalese High-Altitude Porters

NCOC Session — 9 June 2021: ‘Guidelines for Reopening Tourism’ issued vide NCOC’s letter no. 801/A/ NCOC-01 and Additional Guidelines for Promotion of Safe Tourism issued vide letter no. 801/A/NCOC-01 dated 29 May 2021, reference.

1. High-altitude porters from Nepal, being imperative for high altitude mountaineering
expeditions may be allowed to enter Pakistan (through exemptions) with “Stringent Protocols” as appended below: –
a. Handling by registered tour operators.
b. Compulsory vaccination; have to produce authentic ‘Vaccination Certificate’.
c. Negative RT – PCR Report before boarding (maximum 72 hours old)
d. RAT on arrival.
e. Mandatory quarantine for 10 Days (self-paid)
f. Exclusive arrangements for Safe Transportation from airport onwards by tour operators.

2. PTDC. Ensure dissemination of guidelines to all stakeholders. Also maintain record
of all mountaineering expeditions and share with NCOC on weekly basis.

3. GB Tourism Department I Local Administration. Ensure implementation of SOPs in
coordination with all stakeholders including tour operators.

4. MoNHSRC Only. “Guidelines for Reopening of Tourism” be revised accordingly.

5. Forwarded for information / necessary action and dissemination to all concerned for
compliance, please.

Deputy Director of Operations
Muhammad Umar Farooq