DistantNews
Support us
🇸🇬 Singapore /Disasters & Emergencies

Famed Nirmal Purja Among 10 Climbers Reported Missing on Pakistani Mountain

From The Straits Times · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • At least 10 climbers, including renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, are missing on Pakistan's Broad Peak following a suspected avalanche.
  • The climbers were believed to have been swept away by the avalanche on Thursday at an altitude of 6,600 meters.
  • Pakistan Army Aviation rescue helicopters have been dispatched, with hopes for the safe recovery of the missing mountaineers.

A suspected avalanche on Pakistan's Broad Peak has left at least 10 climbers, including celebrated Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, missing. The incident occurred on Thursday, with the climbers believed to have been swept away at an altitude of 6,600 meters (21,653 feet).

received deeply concerning reports of an avalanche that struck a team of climbers

— The Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP)Describing the initial information received about the incident.

Chhang Dawa Sherpa, a board director at Seven Summit Treks (SST), confirmed that three of the company's guides were among the missing. Purja, 43, is globally recognized for holding the record for the fastest ascent of the world's 14 highest mountains.

we remain hopeful for the safe recovery of the missing climbers

— The Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP)Expressing optimism amidst the rescue efforts.

The Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) reported receiving "deeply concerning reports" of the avalanche striking the team around midday Thursday. The ACP stated that the entire team has been out of communication since the event. Pakistan Army Aviation rescue helicopters have been deployed, and the ACP expressed hope for a safe recovery.

The entire team has reportedly been out of communication since the avalanche

— The Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP)Confirming the loss of contact with the expedition.

Broad Peak, standing at 8,051 meters (26,414 feet), is known as one of Pakistan's most formidable climbs. The expedition involved climbers from Nepal, Pakistan, Oman, the U.S., and China. Purja gained wider international fame following a Netflix documentary that chronicled his record-breaking mountaineering achievements.

fell down straight from there

— Chhang Dawa SherpaDescribing the climbers' last known location and the suspected fall after the avalanche.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Straits Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog