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Ten climbers led by renowned Nepali mountaineer ‘missing’ on Pakistan peak

Al Jazeera · 2026-07-31

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Ten climbers, including five from Nepal, are feared missing after an avalanche struck their expedition on Broad Peak in northern Pakistan, led by renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja. • Why it matters: The incident highlights the dangers of high-altitude climbing, particularly on challenging peaks like Broad Peak, and raises concerns for the safety of the climbers, as they have been out of communication since the avalanche. • What to watch next: Rescue operations are being mobilized, contingent on weather conditions, and updates on the fate of the missing climbers and the progress of the search efforts are anticipated.

**Ten Climbers Led by Renowned Nepali Mountaineer Feared Missing After Avalanche on Pakistan Peak**

*Published on July 31, 2026*

Ten climbers, including five from Nepal, are feared missing following an avalanche on Broad Peak, located in the Karakoram mountain range of northern Pakistan. The climbers were part of an expedition led by the celebrated Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, known for his record-breaking achievements in high-altitude climbing.

The Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) confirmed the incident late Thursday, stating that they had received alarming reports regarding the avalanche that struck the team. Broad Peak, which stands at 8,047 meters (26,401 feet), is the 12th-highest mountain in the world and is known for its challenging climbing conditions.

According to the ACP, the expedition team comprises ten climbers from various countries. Alongside the five Nepali climbers, the group includes one climber from Pakistan, one from Oman, one from China, one from the United States, and another foreign climber whose nationality has not been disclosed. The club reported that the entire team has been out of communication since the avalanche occurred.

Efforts are currently underway to mobilize helicopter support and other rescue resources to locate the missing climbers. However, the ACP noted that these operations are contingent upon weather and operational conditions in the region.

Nirmal Purja, 43, widely known as Nims Dai, has gained international acclaim for his remarkable feats in mountaineering. Since transitioning to full-time climbing and guiding in 2018 after leaving the British military, Purja has set multiple records, including climbing all 14 of the world’s "eight-thousanders" in just six months and six days between April and October 2019. In 2021, he achieved the first winter ascent of K2, further solidifying his reputation as one of the leading figures in the mountaineering community.

The situation remains critical as rescue teams work against time and the harsh conditions typical of the high-altitude environment. The ACP has expressed deep concern for the safety of the climbers and is urging for swift action to locate them.

As the news unfolds, the mountaineering community and the families of the climbers await updates on the rescue efforts and the fate of those involved in this perilous expedition.

Source: Al Jazeera
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