China gives in, puts road to Everest on hold for now

Hao’s statement negates earlier reports that China has decided to go ahead with the plan which would have eased the 2008 Beijing Olympic torch’s journey to Mt Everest.

“In the first stage, we are doing basic maintenance work on the existing road built in 1978 of sand and stone. It’s set to complete in mid August,” Hao was quoted as telling a group of foreign journalists on Saturday who are visiting Tibet.

In the meantime, the regional government plans to improve the road, he said.

“But the plan is subject to a feasibility study and environment assessment before it is approved by the relevant department. That will probably take a pretty long time.”

Hao said Tibet has always attached great importance to the preservation of the ecology and environment in the nature reserve of the Mt Everest. “But many mountaineers and tourists from home and abroad have suggested the road need maintenance and renovation.”

Besides, many Tibetans have expressed the same demand for easier access to the mountain, he said.