Sherpas in Nepal refuse to rebuild the route on Mt Everest

Kathmandu - Sherpas in Nepal are refusing to rebuild the route on Mount Everest that was destroyed by an earthquake-triggered avalanche more than one week ago, a decision which will likely end this year's climbing season.

Gyanendra Shrestha, an official at Nepal's Mountaineering Department, said the Sherpas informed the office on Monday that they were not going to rebuild the route.

Mountaineering teams have until the end of the month to climb the peak, but without the route fixed it is not be possible for them to make their climbs. The Sherpas play a crucial role by bringing the ladders, ropes and equipment needed to clear the trail.