Nepal is currently experiencing a striking contrast: on one hand, the autumn climbing season is in full swing, drawing adventurers to its majestic mountains; on the other, its cities are grappling with significant social unrest. Young people, particularly Generation Z, are leading protests against perceived government corruption and a recent controversial social media blackout. This situation presents a complex picture of a nation balancing its vital tourism industry with its citizens' demands for digital freedom and good governance.
As international climbers journey to iconic peaks such as Manaslu, Dhaulagiri, and the Everest massif, the country's urban landscape is marked by widespread dissent. The government's decision to restrict access to social media platforms has ignited a strong reaction from a generation heavily reliant on these tools for communication and organization. This unprecedented ban has not only fueled public outrage but also severely impacted the country's critical tourism sector, which relies heavily on digital communication for its operations.
Youth-Led Digital Freedom Movement
The Nepali government's unexpected decision to restrict social media platforms has sparked widespread demonstrations across major cities, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, and Biratnagar. Over the weekend, thousands of young people, predominantly teenagers and those in their early twenties, converged on the Federal Parliament grounds in Kathmandu's New Baneshwor district. Eyewitness accounts, including reports from The Himalayan Times, describe protesters successfully breaching police barricades and scaling perimeter fences, highlighting the intensity of their resolve against the digital clampdown and broader governmental issues.
Authorities have responded to these escalating protests with forceful measures, deploying tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. Consequently, a curfew has been enacted in the vicinity of the Federal Parliament, an area that is a popular tourist destination, situated close to Thamel. Tourists in the city have been strongly advised to exercise caution, remain informed about road closures and restricted zones, and prioritize their safety in light of the ongoing civil disturbances and the government's response.
The Dual Impact: Tourism and Mountaineering
The government's recent ban on social media has severely hampered the operations of tourism-related businesses, particularly as Nepal enters its peak autumn season. Agencies, local guides, and various other stakeholders are struggling to maintain connectivity, often resorting to virtual private networks (VPNs) to circumvent the restrictions. While some companies have managed to continue posting updates on platforms like Instagram, the blanket ban has significantly disrupted communication channels, especially via WhatsApp, which is crucial for coordinating with international clients and managing logistics for trekking and climbing expeditions.
Despite the communication challenges, mountaineering activities continue in the higher altitudes. Expeditions to Everest and Manaslu are proceeding, with Sherpa teams successfully establishing camps and fixing ropes. Notable climbers like David Klein and Marci Nagy are undertaking challenging ascents on Dhaulagiri without supplementary oxygen or porters, while American runner Tyler Andrews plans multiple ascents of Mera Peak for acclimatization before tackling Everest. These ongoing climbs, alongside the efforts of French climbers Benjamine Verdines and Nicolas Jean to establish a base camp on Jannu, highlight the resilience of the climbing community amidst the urban unrest, showcasing a stark contrast between the vibrant mountain activities and the restrictive digital environment in the cities.