ISLAMABAD – A massive search and rescue operation is unfolding in the Karakoram Range after a devastating avalanche struck a mountaineering expedition on Broad Peak, leaving all ten team members unaccounted for. The incident occurred around midday on Thursday on the 8,047-meter giant, the world’s 12th-highest mountain.
The Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) confirmed that the entire expedition, led by renowned Nepali climber Nirmal Purja “Nims Dai,” has been out of contact since the avalanche hit. The rescue effort has now entered a critical phase, with specialized teams and aircraft deployed to the remote, high-altitude location.
International Climbers Caught in the Disaster
The missing team represents a diverse group of international alpinists. Alongside Purja, the Nepali contingent includes Pur Bahadur Gurung “Yukta,” Kili Pemba Sherpa “Kilu,” Nima Sherpa, Nawang Thindu Sherpa, and Gyalu Sherpa. Also missing are Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi from Hunza, Omani mountaineer Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy, American climber Mallory Geis, and Chinese climber Wang Zhong.
“We received deeply concerning reports of the avalanche, and the entire team has been silent since the incident struck,” the ACP stated in its initial alert. The club’s leadership, including President Major General Irfan Arshad (Retd), is maintaining constant communication with government authorities to coordinate the urgent response.
Helicopters and Specialized Teams Mobilized
By Friday morning, the operation had escalated significantly. Two rescue helicopters, loaded with personnel and specialized equipment, were dispatched to reinforce ground search efforts. The aircraft are navigating the notoriously difficult weather and operational conditions of the Karakoram to support teams on the ice.
Karrar Haidri, Senior Vice President of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, stressed the all-out nature of the mobilization. “We are leaving no stone unturned to reach the stranded climbers,” Haidri said. “We are in close coordination with all concerned authorities to ensure that every possible resource is mobilized for this operation. Our prayers are with the climbers and their families at this difficult time.”
The Perilous Majesty of Broad Peak
Broad Peak, locally known as Falchan Kangri, sits on the Pakistan-China border near K2. While often considered less technical than other 8,000-meter summits, the mountain is dangerously exposed to avalanche risk and presents severe challenges for rescue logistics due to its remote location and extreme altitude.
The ACP has expressed solidarity with the families and the global mountaineering community, stating it remains hopeful for a positive outcome. The club is closely monitoring the situation and has pledged to share verified updates as the complex and hazardous search operation continues.
