Broad Peak avalanche leaves 10 climbers missing as rescue efforts continue
Rescue operation launched after avalanche
According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP), rescue teams were immediately mobilised after reports of the avalanche were received.
Officials said helicopter support and all available rescue resources were mobilised as quickly as possible. However, adverse weather conditions and the challenging mountain terrain continue to hamper the operation.
On Friday morning, two rescue helicopters carrying rescue personnel and specialised equipment were dispatched to support ground teams conducting search operations in the area.
Nims Dai among missing climbers
The Alpine Club confirmed that the missing climbers include renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, widely known as “Nims Dai,” who was leading the expedition.
Other missing Nepali climbers include Pur Bahadur Gurung “Yukta,” Kili Pemba Sherpa “Kilu,” Nima Sherpa, Nawang Thindu Sherpa, and Gyalu Sherpa.
The expedition also included Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi from Hunza, Omani mountaineer Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy, American climber Mallory Geis, and Chinese climber Wang Zhong.
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Officials said there has been no contact with any member of the team since the avalanche struck.
Authorities coordinate rescue mission
ACP President Major General Irfan Arshad (Retd) said the organisation is working closely with government authorities and rescue agencies to support the ongoing operation.
Senior Vice President Karrar Haidri said every available resource is being mobilised to reach the missing climbers.
“We are in close coordination with all concerned authorities to ensure that every possible resource is mobilised for this operation. Our prayers are with the climbers and their families at this difficult time,” he said.
The Alpine Club added that it will continue to share verified updates as more information becomes available.
Broad Peak’s challenging environment
Broad Peak, which stands at 8,047 metres, is the world’s 12th-highest mountain and is located near K2 on the Pakistan-China border.
Known locally as Falchan Kangri, the mountain is generally considered less technically demanding than some other 8,000-metre peaks. However, it remains highly vulnerable to avalanches, sudden weather changes, and difficult rescue conditions.
Its remote location and extreme altitude make rescue operations particularly challenging, even for experienced emergency teams.
Rescue teams race against time
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Mountain rescue experts say the first few hours after an avalanche are often the most critical for survival. Rescuers continue both aerial and ground search operations despite adverse weather and dangerous terrain.
Officials remain hopeful that the missing climbers can be found safely, although no official information about their condition has yet been released.
International concern grows
The incident has drawn widespread attention from the international mountaineering community, as the missing team includes climbers from Nepal, Pakistan, Oman, the United States, and China.
Families, fellow climbers, and rescue organisations are closely monitoring developments while hoping for positive news from the search operation. Authorities have urged the public to rely only on verified updates as rescue efforts continue.
