Nirmal Purja feared missing in Pakistan avalanche

World-renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja is among 10 climbers feared missing after a powerful avalanche

World-renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja is among 10 climbers feared missing after a powerful avalanche struck an expedition on Broad Peak in Pakistan’s Karakoram mountain range.

According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, the avalanche hit the team around midday on Thursday while they were attempting to climb the 8,047-metre peak. Since the incident, all members of the expedition have reportedly lost communication, raising serious concerns about their safety.

The missing group is said to include climbers from Pakistan, Oman, China and the United States. Rescue officials are working to gather more information as efforts continue to establish contact with the team.

The Alpine Club stated that it is coordinating closely with government authorities and relevant agencies to launch an urgent search and rescue operation. Helicopter support and other emergency resources are being arranged, although rescue efforts may depend on weather conditions and access to the remote mountain.

Nirmal Purja, a Nepal-born climber, is widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest high-altitude mountaineers. He gained global recognition in 2019 after becoming the first person to climb all 14 of the world’s mountains above 8,000 metres in just over six months, a record-breaking achievement that earned international acclaim.

Broad Peak, located near K2 in northern Pakistan, is one of the world’s 14 highest mountains and is known for its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather. Avalanches and harsh conditions have made it one of the most dangerous climbing destinations in the region.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the fate of the climbers. Search teams remain on standby, hoping for improved weather conditions to begin a full-scale rescue mission. The mountaineering community is closely monitoring developments as hopes remain that the missing climbers will be found safely.