On Sunday, the Pakistan Army successfully evacuated renowned mountaineer Samina Baig from Shigar’s Askole area to Skardu after she experienced severe breathing problems, forcing her to abandon an international expedition to conquer K2. Baig, who was participating in a joint Pakistani-Italian mountaineering team, fell ill at the K2 base camp on Friday and had to be transported to lower altitudes for medical attention.
The initial phase of her evacuation involved a strenuous journey on horseback from the K2 base camp to Shigar’s Askole area. Despite her critical condition, Baig endured the lengthy journey due to inclement weather, which prevented an immediate aerial rescue. The Pakistan Army’s aviation team, poised for a rescue operation, faced adverse weather conditions that necessitated a ground evacuation.
On Sunday morning, around 10 am, the Pakistan Army began her transfer to Skardu, where the lower altitude was expected to aid in her recovery. Upon arrival in Skardu, Baig was admitted to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH), where a dedicated team of Pakistani Army doctors was prepared to provide her with the necessary medical care. Her health condition will be closely monitored to determine any further medical interventions or her possible onward transfer.
Samina Baig is a trailblazer in Pakistani mountaineering, having earned widespread acclaim for her numerous achievements. She is notably the first Pakistani woman to summit Mount Everest, a feat that has inspired many in the mountaineering community. Baig’s commitment and resilience in pursuing her passion for mountaineering continue to serve as an inspiration, even as she faces this challenging health setback.
The mountaineering community and her supporters remain hopeful for her swift recovery, recognizing the immense contributions she has made to the sport and the pride she has brought to Pakistan through her remarkable accomplishments.
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