Four climbers have died and six others are feared missing following an avalanche on Broad Peak, one of the world’s highest mountains located in Pakistan’s Karakoram range.
The incident occurred on Thursday during an expedition led by renowned Nepalese climber Nirmal Purja. The team consisted of climbers from multiple countries, including the United States, China, Oman, Pakistan, and Nepal.
Authorities in Gilgit Baltistan have confirmed the recovery of four bodies, with two identities verified: Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy from Oman and Pur Bahadur Gurung from Nepal. The other two bodies remain unidentified.
Search and rescue efforts were temporarily suspended due to adverse weather but are expected to resume soon. The Pakistan Army has deployed helicopters equipped with specialized rescue teams to aid the operation.
Notable Climbers Among the Missing
- Mallory Geis (USA): On her first major climbing expedition in Pakistan.
- Sohail Saki (Pakistan): Attempting his final 8,000m peak.
- Pur Bahadur Gurung (Nepal): A certified International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA) guide close to completing the 14 peaks challenge.
- Kili Pemba Sherpa (Nepal): A veteran climber with 15 Everest summits and part of historic winter K2 expedition in 2021.
Broad Peak, standing at 8,051 metres, is known for its difficulty and has claimed many lives since its first ascent in 1957. The mountain ranks as the 12th highest globally.
The Alpine Club of Pakistan continues to coordinate with authorities to mobilize resources for the rescue operation and has expressed solidarity with the families and the international climbing community during this challenging time.
