In recent weeks, Mount Everest has once again made headlines, drawing attention to the dangerous and overcrowded conditions climbers face in their quest to reach the world's highest peak. The mountain, known as the ultimate Instagram hotspot, has witnessed traffic jams, environmental concerns, and an increase in accidents and deaths.

The tragic incident that occurred earlier this week involved British climber Daniel Paterson, 39, and his Nepali guide Pas Tenji Sherpa, 23. They were dragged down the mountainside after a chunk of hardened snow collapsed, causing them to fall. Their whereabouts remain unknown, adding to the growing list of missing climbers. Another climber, Kenyan national Joshua Cheruiyot Kirui, 40, was found deceased while his guide, Nawang Sherpa, 44, remains missing after they disappeared on Wednesday.

Images and videos posted on social media depict the harrowing reality faced by climbers attempting to conquer Everest. Footage shows lengthy queues of hundreds of climbers stranded in the aftermath of the tragic incident, with some even witnessing the sight of deceased bodies sliding past them.

Everest, dubbed "the highest, the dirtiest, and the most controversial place on Earth," has faced criticism for its overcrowded and polluted environment. Reports highlight the disregard some climbers have shown towards the welfare of others, bypassing those in distress and leaving them to perish. The accumulation of human waste and pollution in such a pristine environment also raises concerns.

The issue of overcrowding on Everest is not a new one; it has been a persistent problem for years. However, it has now become a growing concern for officials. The mountain's popularity remains undeterred, despite the frequent accidents and fatalities that occur. Currently, hundreds of climbers find themselves squeezed side by side along the treacherous Hillary Step, exacerbating the already risky conditions.

Mountaineering guide Vinayak Jaya Malla, who witnessed a cornice collapse last week after successfully summiting and descending, recounted the chaos and slow progress caused by the traffic congestion. Climbers were stuck in the jam, with dwindling oxygen supplies adding to the perilous situation. Malla, along with others, attempted to create a new route for the descending traffic, but the overwhelming number of climbers made it nearly impossible.

Indian mountaineer Rajan Dwivedi, who recently conquered Everest, emphasized the seriousness of the climb. Dwivedi shared his experience through a post on Instagram, recounting the numerous climbers suffering from frostbite, snow blindness, and other unreported injuries.

As concerns mount over overcrowding, pollution, and the safety of climbers, officials are being called upon to take action. The allure of conquering Everest must be balanced with stringent regulations, including limits on the number of climbers allowed on the mountain at any given time. With the current peak climbing season in full swing, it remains to be seen how authorities will address these pressing issues and ensure the safety and preservation of this iconic natural wonder.