Why Are Dead Bodies on Mountains Not Removed and Given a Proper Burial, for Example, Rob Hall and the 'Green Boots' on Mount Everest?

When people discuss the matter of bodies left on mountains, it's easy to overlook the significant physical challenges involved. At extreme altitudes, such as those found on Mount Everest, a body's weight is far greater due to the lower air pressure. Furthermore, these bodies are no longer mere human remains; they’ve become massive ice rocks, frozen in time. This essay explores the reasons why these bodies are left on the mountain and not removed.

Cost and Logistics

First and foremost, the cost of carrying a deceased climber down from the mountain is often prohibitive. Climbing Mount Everest is an incredibly expensive endeavor. Permits alone can cost thousands of dollars, and climbers must also purchase advanced equipment, from crampons to specialized stoves for melting snow. Additionally, many climbers hire professional guides and Sherpas to set up camps and carry gear, which adds to the overall expense.

Consider the case of a climber who dies on Mount Everest. If the body is to be recovered, the cost of organizing and executing a retrieval operation is substantial. First, there must be a team of trained climbers willing to risk their lives to bring the body down. Next, a helicopter must be hired to transport the body from the mountain to the base camp. Finally, the body must go through a series of legal procedures, adding to the overall cost and hassle. For families who have already faced the astronomical costs of the expedition, the additional expense of body removal is often too much.

Perils and Rescuing Bodies

The second significant factor is the inherent danger. Climbing Mount Everest is one of the most dangerous endeavors a person can undertake. The Khumbu Icefall and the Death Zone present immense challenges. Climbers must navigate treacherous terrain, unpredictable weather, and the extreme physical demands of high-altitude climbing. Given these hazards, the thought of risking one's life to retrieve a dead body is daunting. Often, the only people willing to undertake such a task are Sherpas, who are essential for the safety and success of the climb.

According to Jon Krakauer's book, Into Thin Air, Sherpas are deeply superstitious and avoid direct contact with dead bodies. During the 1996 disaster, when bodies were found near the South Col, Sherpas stayed at a safe distance and did not approach the bodies. Cultural and spiritual beliefs can play a significant role in these decisions, and respecting these beliefs is crucial for maintaining the safety of the climbing community.

The Case of Rob Hall

A specific example of a body left on Mount Everest is that of Rob Hall, who tragically died and was left on the mountain. Many people, including Hall's widow, preferred to leave him where he died, as a symbol of his passion for the mountain and the final place where he met his end. This decision was shaped by the cultural and personal significance, rather than a desire to avoid the cost and risk of retrieval.

In 2006, an operation was conducted to retrieve the bodies of several Indian climbers who had died high on the mountain. This was a significant undertaking, involving a team of experienced climbers and logistical support. Recovery efforts such as these are rare and often necessitated by the unique situation of the climber's family or friends.

Commercial vs. Adventurous Climbing

It's worth noting that the impetus for these decisions can vary between commercial and adventurous climbing. Commercial expeditions often provide support systems and are more likely to have the resources to attempt a body recovery, while solo adventurers or those climbing without such support are less likely to have the means for such an operation.

In conclusion, the decision to leave bodies on Mount Everest is shaped by a complex interplay of cost, logistics, and personal and cultural considerations. The mountains remain a place where the dead are never truly forgotten, but the practical realities of retrieving their bodies make eternal rest a preferable alternative.