Six high-altitude porters restart difficult operation after weather improves, with Pakistan Army helicopters expected to airlift body from base camp
GILGIT: A rescue team resumed its operation on Spantik on Tuesday to recover the body of Pakistani mountaineer Dr Asma Mushtaq, who died while descending the 7,027-metre peak in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Shigar district.
The 34-year-old climber died on August 20 after developing a serious high-altitude medical emergency during her descent from Spantik, also known as Golden Peak. Her body remains at Camp 3, situated at approximately 6,250 metres.
Severe weather had earlier forced rescuers to suspend recovery efforts. However, improving conditions allowed six high-altitude porters to restart their journey from base camp.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the team was heading towards Camp 2 and would proceed cautiously as conditions permitted.
Army Helicopters Await Recovery at Base Camp
Alpine Club of Pakistan General Secretary Ayaz Shigri said Pakistan Army helicopters were expected to transport Mushtaq’s body to Skardu once rescuers brought it down to base camp.
Mushtaq had successfully reached Spantik’s summit and remained in good health during the ascent. However, she developed severe altitude-related complications at around 6,400 metres while descending.
Her guides, Akbar Ali and Muhammad Amin, immediately attempted to assist her but could not save her despite challenging conditions.
Broad Peak Search Continues Separately
Meanwhile, rescuers are continuing their search for Nepalese mountaineer Nawang Thindu, who disappeared after an avalanche struck a 10-member international expedition on Broad Peak on July 30.
The expedition, led by renowned British-Nepali climber Nirmal Purja, suffered catastrophic losses, with his company later confirming there were no survivors.
Broad Peak, the world’s 12th-highest mountain, remains among the Karakoram’s most demanding climbs.
Furthermore, increasingly unpredictable weather patterns have complicated this year’s climbing season, increasing avalanche risks and repeatedly disrupting rescue and recovery operations across Gilgit-Baltistan’s high-altitude peaks.
