The Search for Missing Climbers on Broad Peak Suspended Due to Adverse Weather Conditions
A search and rescue operation for foreign climbers missing after an avalanche at Broad Peak in Pakistan was suspended late Friday due to poor weather conditions. The operation, which had been ongoing since earlier reports of four bodies being recovered were made, was put on hold as the harsh mountain terrain and high winds made it difficult for rescuers to access the affected area.
The search team, led by renowned mountaineer Sarbaz Khan, consisted of three members from Pakistan Army Aviation helicopters. The team successfully airlifted the remains of Oman’s Nadhira Ahmed Abdullah Al Harthy, Nepal’s Pur Bahadur Gurung, and Mallory Geis from Broad Peak to Skardu by Pakistan Army helicopters.
The bodies were later shifted to CMH Skardu by Pakistan Army Aviation helicopters. Drone footage also indicated that more climbers may have been present during the search operation, although it is unclear how many.
Despite challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions at high altitudes, the search operation continued with cooperation from local expert mountaineers and rescue teams. The Gilgit-Baltistan government expressed condolences to the families of the deceased climbers and assured them that all possible assistance would be provided in the rescue operation and repatriation of the bodies.
Experts say the chances of survival for the missing climbers are diminishing by the hour, as they struggle to survive on the treacherous terrain. The Alpine Club of Pakistan identified 10-member team consisting of six Nepalese climbers, a Pakistani, an Omani, an American, and a climber from China.
The search operation is ongoing with support from two Pakistan Army Aviation rescue helicopters carrying rescue personnel and specialized equipment. ACP Senior Vice President Karrar Haidri stated that the club remained in constant contact with government authorities to facilitate the rescue operation.
GPS locations received by some of the missing climbers indicated that the avalanche had swept them about 1,000 meters downhill, leaving them trapped. Local high-altitude porters may also have been affected by the avalanche, according to ACP General Secretary Ayaz Shigri.
The Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain Advocate directed all relevant departments to remain on high alert and expedite the search and rescue operation in coordination with Pakistan Army, local expert mountaineers, and rescue teams. The district administration was instructed to utilize available resources to ensure the climbers’ safety.
Experts say that despite efforts being made by various stakeholders, the chances of survival for the missing climbers are diminishing rapidly. The provincial government has expressed hope that the missing climbers would be found safe, directing concerned authorities to further expedite the rescue operation and provide necessary logistical support.
The search for missing climbers on Broad Peak is a complex operation involving multiple agencies and teams working in challenging terrain. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how many of those involved will ultimately survive this ordeal.
Based on reporting from Dawn.
