Islamabad: Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON Engineer Amir Muqam on Friday ordered an immediate rescue operation after contact was lost with a 10 member international mountaineering team following an avalanche near Broad Peak (8,047 metres) in Gilgit-Baltistan, directing all relevant authorities to coordinate with the Pakistan Army to locate and assist the climbers.
Taking notice of reports received from the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) and the district administration of Shigar, the minister instructed all concerned departments to remain on high alert and accelerate search and rescue efforts.
Mr Muqam said every available resource should be utilised to ensure the safety of the missing climbers, who were part of an international expedition led by renowned mountaineer Nirmal “Nims” Purja.
According to initial reports, the team includes Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi from Hunza as well as mountaineers from Nepal, the United States, Oman, China and other countries.
Expressing deep concern over the incident, the minister prayed for the safety of the climbers and directed rescue teams to keep the government informed of developments on a real time basis.
Broad Peak, located in the Karakoram range of Gilgit-Baltistan, is the world’s 12th highest mountain and attracts climbers from across the globe during the summer climbing season.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the condition or exact whereabouts of the missing expedition members.