Nepal is making it mandatory for all tourists trekking in the country’s Himalayan region to hire local assistance through a registered trekking company, according to Nepal Tourism Board’s (NTB) spokesperson, Mani Raj Lamichhane. The new rule coming into effect from 1 April, applies to established trekking routes within the Trekkers’ Information Management System, where each trekker, including free independent trekkers, must obtain permission from the NTB. The decision aims to ensure the safety of travellers and create more jobs, and is expected to provide a boost to local tourism, as well as create employment opportunities for thousands of guides and porters whose livelihoods have been affected by the slowdown in tourism caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.