China to enforce 'separation line' on Everest as part of COVID measures

China will be enforcing a 'separation line' to prevent the spread of COVID-19 infections from the virus-hit Nepalese side of the world's tallest mountain. Nepal is currently facing a severe second wave of COVID-19, which has led to the emergency evacuation of over 30 climbers from the Nepalese camp.

Tibet Mountaineering Association has issued instructions to mountain guides to set up dividing lines up the mountain before allowing thrill-seekers to come streaming in for the climbing season.

Tibetan authorities told reporters at a press conference they would take the "most stringent epidemic prevention measures" to avoid contact between climbers on the north and south slopes or at the top, reported the NDTV news agency via Xinhua.