Dehradun, May 28 -- The Uttarakhand government is considering a sweeping regulatory framework for trekking and mountaineering activities, including mandatory registration of operators, a minimum age of 14 for high-altitude treks, compulsory mountaineering certification for guides and quotas for hiring local residents.

Officials said the proposed framework seeks to improve safety standards, strengthen oversight of trekking activities and reduce ecological pressure on fragile Himalayan regions, while also promoting local employment opportunities.

The proposed guidelines, prepared by the forest department in consultation with stakeholders including the tourism department, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police, experts, trekking oper...