Nirmal Purja among ten climbers feared missing after avalanche
Pakistani mountaineering officials say the avalanche hit at around midday on Thursday on the 8,047‑metre peak in the Karakoram range. There has been no subsequent communication with the team.
The group comprises an American, a Chinese national, an Omani and five Nepalis. Purja, the expedition leader, is renowned for climbing all 14 of the world’s 8,000‑metre plus mountains in just over six months back in 2019.
Searchers hope to use a helicopter if weather permits and all available resources are being mobilised at the earliest opportunity.
Broad Peak is recognized as one of the most challenging climbs, ranked as the world’s 12th highest peak.
The Alpine Club of Pakistan released a statement saying it had been in constant contact with government authorities to launch an immediate search and rescue operation. The Club prayers for the safety and successful rescue of all the climbers and stands in solidarity with their families and the international mountaineering community during this difficult time.
Purja joined the British Army in 2003 and became a Royal Marine in 2009. His climbing career began when he walked to Everest base camp in 2012 and, instead of returning as planned, decided to climb the entire mountain.
This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh the page for the fullest version.
