Broad Peak avalanche: 10 international climbers missing, four bodies recovered

SHIGAR: A major search and rescue operation is underway after an avalanche struck Broad Peak (8,047 metres), the world’s 12th-highest mountain, in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Shigar district, leaving a 10-member international climbing expedition missing, according to the district administration and the Alpine Club of Pakistan.

The avalanche occurred while the climbers were travelling from Camp II to Camp III during their ascent of the mountain, the Shigar district administration said in a media release.

The Alpine Club of Pakistan said contact had been lost with the expedition, which was led by renowned Nepali mountaineer Nims Dai and included climbers from Pakistan, Nepal, Oman, the United States, China and other countries. Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi is also among those reported missing.

According to initial reports, four bodies have been recovered, although authorities said the identification process is still underway. Officials have yet to officially confirm the condition and whereabouts of the remaining climbers.

Search and rescue operations have continued despite difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions. Rescue sources said Pakistan Army helicopters, local high-altitude porters, volunteers and experienced mountaineers are taking part in the operation, with all available resources being deployed to locate the missing climbers.

The Shigar district administration said Rescue 1122, police and the health department had been placed on high alert, while relevant agencies were continuously monitoring the situation.

The Alpine Club said efforts were underway to deploy helicopters and other available resources for the rescue mission. It added that its president, Major General Irfan Arshad, remained in contact with the relevant authorities and institutions.

The club said rescue operations would continue in line with weather and operational conditions, adding that further updates would be issued as more information becomes available.