Renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja is among 10 climbers missing after an avalanche struck Broad Peak in northern Pakistan. The Alpine Club of Pakistan confirmed the incident on Thursday. Rescue teams have launched a search operation in the challenging Karakoram mountain range.
Rescue Operation Continues On Broad Peak
According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, the avalanche hit an expedition led by Purja. Officials said they lost contact with the entire team after the incident. The expedition included 10 climbers from several countries.
The team comprised five Nepalese climbers, one Pakistani, one Omani, one American, one Chinese climber, and another foreign national. Authorities have not established communication with any team members since the avalanche.
The Alpine Club said two Pakistan Army helicopters joined the rescue operation. The helicopters transported rescue personnel and specialised equipment. Officials hope the aerial support will strengthen search efforts in the difficult high-altitude terrain.
Purja Chased Historic Climbing Achievement
Purja, 43, previously served with Britain’s Brigade of Gurkhas and Royal Marines. He later became a full-time mountaineer and expedition guide.
In 2019, Purja climbed all 14 peaks above 8,000 metres within six months. The achievement set a world record at that time. Moreover, he completed the first winter ascent of K2 with a Nepali team in 2021.
Earlier this week, Purja wrote on X about his latest expedition. He said he hoped to become the first climber to summit all 14 eight-thousanders twice without supplemental oxygen.
Broad Peak stands 8,047 metres high in Pakistan’s Karakoram range. Climbers consider it among the world’s most demanding and technical mountains. Meanwhile, rescue teams continue searching for the missing expedition members.
