A ten-member international mountaineering expedition, led by the renowned Nepal-born former Royal Marine Nirmal Purja, is feared missing following an avalanche on Broad Peak, one of the world's most formidable mountains. The incident occurred around midday on Thursday on the 8,047-metre (26,400 ft) peak, which is located in Pakistan's Karakoram range. Since the avalanche struck, there has been no communication with any members of the climbing party.
The team consists of a diverse group of international mountaineers, including one American, one Chinese national, one Omani, and five Nepalese climbers. Purja, who serves as the expedition leader, gained international fame in 2019 for successfully climbing all 14 of the world’s mountains exceeding 8,000 metres in height in just over six months. His background includes service in the British Army, which he joined in 2003, later becoming a Royal Marine in 2009. His professional climbing career began in 2012 after a trek to Everest base camp, where he opted to climb the mountain instead of returning home.
Broad Peak, ranked as the 12th highest mountain in the world, is widely considered a highly challenging climb for any expedition. In response to the disappearance, the Alpine Club of Pakistan has issued a statement confirming it is in constant contact with government authorities to coordinate an immediate search and rescue operation. The organization stated that every possible effort is being made to secure helicopter support, noting that all available resources are being mobilized as quickly as possible. The club also expressed its solidarity with the families of the missing climbers and the international mountaineering community, offering prayers for their safety and a successful rescue. Search teams are prepared to deploy a helicopter to the site, provided that weather conditions remain suitable for flight.
Searchers hope to use a helicopter if weather permits.
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