A Pakistan Army captain, a soldier, and a civilian machine operator were martyred during a snow clearance operation in Gilgit-Baltistan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed on Saturday.
The operation aimed to clear Burzil Pass using heavy machinery to facilitate the operational movement of forces in the area between the night of January 2 and 3, 2026.
Captain Asmad, 28, led the mission, which involved working in extreme winter conditions. At around 2 a.m. on January 3, a snow slide occurred during the operation, entrapping Captain Asmad, Sepoy Rizwan, 32, and civilian machine operator Essa, along with one other soldier.
Rescue teams managed to free all four from the snow; however, the condition of Captain Asmad, Sepoy Rizwan, and Essa deteriorated, and all three succumbed to their injuries, embracing martyrdom.
The ISPR highlighted that the operation was highly challenging due to the severe weather and treacherous terrain. The fallen personnel were carrying out a critical task to ensure that Pakistani forces could safely move through the Burzil Pass, underscoring the hazards faced by the military in extreme environments.
“This ultimate sacrifice by our personnel exemplifies their unwavering dedication to duty and their willingness to lay down their lives in the line of service to the motherland,” the ISPR said in its statement.
The military media wing also emphasized that such acts reflect the determination of all ranks of the Pakistan Armed Forces to defend the country under any conditions.
Captain Asmad, Sepoy Rizwan, and Essa are being remembered for their courage and devotion, which highlight the risks involved in both combat and support operations in Pakistan’s mountainous regions.
The ISPR confirmed that their contributions and sacrifice will remain a testament to the bravery and commitment of Pakistani forces operating in extreme conditions to safeguard national interests.
