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It is every climber’s dream to reach the summit of Mt Qomolangma. At 29,017 ft, the peak is undoubtedly the highest spot on earth. But the trek to the summit is anything but a walk in the park.
Ever since the summit was climbed by Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay in 1953, eager climbers try to make the pilgrimage(朝圣之旅) to the top of the mountain every year. The last few weeks of May is the perfect time when the severe weather conditions usually open up for a brief period of time.
On one such day in May, there was a strange traffic jam of mountaineers as they navigated the “death zone” —the deadliest trail to the summit. The severe overcrowding resulted in mishaps and loss of lives.
Mountain climbing, which was once a sport for the fittest, has been crowded out by a wave of adventure tourism. Now, numerous climbers make a beeline for the top of Mt Qomolangma, led by commercial companies. Better equipment and clothing has made it appear all very easy.
However, Qomolangma is a tough mountain. With just a single icy path to the summit and only a few days of clear weather to climb, the dangers of not moving quickly can be fatal. Today, many buy a spot to the top if they have the means to pay for it, but they are ill-prepared or unfit. These tourists push themselves beyond their capacity in the thrill of achievement, risking not just their own lives but that of others following behind.
More than 200 lives have been taken by the slopes so far. Eleven climbers have died this year alone. The last stretch to the peak is a narrow path used by both people sending and descending the summit. With oxygen level at just 30% of what it is at sea level, the human body can shut down from exhaustion very quickly. Climbers have said that the mad rush to the summit makes people uncaring to the troubles of others who are struggling.
21. What does the underlined word ‘mishaps’ mean?
A. Accidents. B. Crashes. C. Arguments. D. Attacks.
22. What does the fourth paragraph imply?
A. Mountain climbing is a game for rich people.
B. Mountain climbing is becoming a business.
C. Brave climbers risk their life to conquer Qomolangma.
D. Advanced equipment ensures tourists’ safety.
23. What is the best title for the text?
A. A craze for mountain climbing B. A deadly zone to Mt Qomolangma
C. An accident on Mt Qomolangma D. A traffic jam on Mt Qomolangma
