Rockfall Injures Three Foreign Climbers at Trango Towers Base Camp, Rescue Delayed by Weather
Three foreign climbers were injured after a rockfall struck their base camp near the Trango Towers in Gilgit-Baltistan, while separate weather-related challenges have delayed rescue efforts in the region.
According to local sources, the climbers had arrived at the Trango Towers base camp to prepare for a climbing expedition. They were waiting for suitable weather conditions before beginning their ascent when a rockfall hit the campsite.
One climber sustained a serious head injury, while the other two suffered injuries of varying severity. The incident also caused significant damage to the team’s camp and equipment.
Rescue Operation Affected by Weather
The expedition’s tour operator requested a helicopter evacuation for the injured climbers. However, officials said poor weather conditions have prevented helicopters from operating safely in the mountainous region.
Authorities noted that adverse weather is expected to continue for the next few days, making aerial rescue difficult. In the meantime, the injured climbers are being transported by ground toward Shigar for further medical assistance.
Due to the remote location of the base camp, reaching the nearest town can take several days on foot.
Challenging Conditions for Mountain Expeditions
The same weather system has also affected several international climbing expeditions in the Karakoram Range.
Teams attempting to summit K2, Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, and Broad Peak have temporarily postponed their summit attempts because of unfavorable weather. Many expeditions had already completed acclimatization rotations and established higher camps before deciding to wait for improved conditions.
Tourist Dies in Separate Incident at Upper Kachura Lake
In a separate incident, a tourist from Islamabad lost his life after accidentally falling into Upper Kachura Lake in Skardu while visiting the popular tourist destination.
According to local police, rescue teams and volunteers responded promptly and recovered the individual. Authorities have urged visitors to exercise caution around lakes, viewpoints, and other natural attractions, particularly during periods of unstable weather.
Officials continue to advise both climbers and tourists to monitor weather forecasts closely and follow local safety guidelines while traveling in the northern areas of Pakistan.
