Four Climbers Confirmed Dead, Six Missing After Avalanche on Broad Peak
GILGIT-BALTISTAN: Rescue teams are continuing search operations after an avalanche struck an international mountaineering expedition on Broad Peak, leaving four climbers confirmed dead while six others remain missing, according to officials.
The incident occurred on Thursday as the climbing team was making its ascent in one of Pakistan’s renowned high-altitude mountain regions.
International Expedition Caught in Avalanche
According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, the expedition consisted of 10 climbers from Pakistan, Nepal, Oman, China, and the United States.
Officials said the team was moving toward Camp 3 when an avalanche swept through the area, carrying the climbers approximately one kilometre downhill.
Communication with the expedition was lost shortly after the incident, prompting an immediate rescue response.
Rescue Operations Underway
Search and rescue efforts are continuing with support from the Pakistan Army Aviation, rescue teams, and local authorities.
Helicopters have been deployed to assist in the operation, while rescue personnel are working to reach the affected area whenever weather conditions permit.
The Alpine Club of Pakistan said it is coordinating closely with government departments and emergency response agencies to support the ongoing mission.
Government Monitoring the Situation
Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Amjad Hussain Advocate has directed all relevant departments to remain on high alert and accelerate rescue operations.
Provincial Tourism Minister Naiknam Karim also stated that every available resource is being utilized to help locate the missing climbers and support the rescue mission.
Challenging Mountain Conditions
Broad Peak is one of Pakistan’s highest mountains and attracts climbers from around the world each year. However, the region’s extreme weather, high altitude, and avalanche risk make mountaineering particularly challenging.
Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions closely as rescue teams search for the missing members of the expedition.
The incident comes shortly after another international climbing team successfully reached the summit of Gasherbrum II during a brief period of favorable weather in the Karakoram mountain range.
