A ten‑member international mountaineering team led by Nepal-born former Royal Marine Nirmal Purja is feared missing after an avalanche on Pakistan’s Broad Peak.
The avalanche struck around midday Thursday on the 8,047‑metre peak in the Karakoram range. Pakistani mountaineering officials say there has been no subsequent communication from the team.
The group comprises an American, a Chinese national, an Omani and five Nepalis, with Purja known for climbing all 14 of the world’s 8,000‑metre peaks in just over six months in 2019.
Searchers hope to use a helicopter if the weather allows. Broad Peak is one of the most challenging climbs, ranked as the world’s 12th highest peak.
The Alpine Club of Pakistan released a statement saying it has been “in constant contact” with government authorities to launch “an immediate search and rescue operation.”
All possible effort is being made to secure helicopter support and mobilise all available resources at the earliest opportunity.
The club prayed for the safety and successful rescue of all the climbers and stands in solidarity with the international mountaineering community during this difficult time.
Purja’s career began after walking to Everest Base Camp in 2012 and deciding to summit the peak.
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