(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Czech Climber Klára Kolouchová Dies in Tragic Fall on Nanga Parbat
Renowned Czech mountaineer Klára Kolouchová has sadly passed away after falling into a ravine while attempting to climb Nanga Parbat, Pakistan’s second-highest peak and one of the world’s most challenging mountains.
Incident Details and Rescue Efforts
The 46-year-old was part of a seven-member expedition that included her husband. The team arrived in Pakistan on June 15 and reached Bonar Base Camp in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district shortly after.
According to Pakistan’s Alpine Club officials, the accident happened early Thursday morning between Camp I and Camp II near Bonar Base Camp. Initial reports suggest a possible oxygen cylinder explosion, but the exact cause is yet to be confirmed.
Diamer Additional Deputy Commissioner Nizamuddin confirmed that Klára’s teammates safely returned to base camp and reported the tragic incident. Rescue teams have been deployed to the site despite the difficult mountain terrain.
Remembering a Legendary Mountaineer
Karrar Haidri, Vice President of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, expressed deep sorrow over the loss:
“We are devastated by the passing of Klára Kolouchová, a remarkable climber who conquered some of the world’s highest peaks. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and the global climbing community at this difficult time.”
Klára was the first Czech woman to summit both Mount Everest and K2, achievements that earned her a distinguished place in mountaineering history. Her expedition on Nanga Parbat, standing at 8,125 meters (26,657 feet), was part of her mission to conquer all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks.
The Dangers of Nanga Parbat
Known as the “Killer Mountain,” Nanga Parbat has a fatality rate of around 22%, making it the third most dangerous 8,000-meter peak. The mountain’s towering faces, including the Rupal Face and Rakhiot Flank, pose serious challenges, especially for rescue operations.
Despite immediate mobilization of rescue teams and high-altitude porters, recovery efforts are expected to be complex and could take several days.
Global Tributes for a Courageous Climber
As the mountaineering community mourns, tributes continue to pour in worldwide, honoring Klára Kolouchová’s bravery and passion for the sport.
