Famed climber Nirmal Purja among 10 climbers killed after Pakistan avalanche, officials say
Famed British-Nepali climber Nirmal Purja and nine others have died following an avalanche on Broad Peak in Pakistan. Rescue operations are currently underway to recover the remaining bodies.
Why it matters
The death of a high-profile mountaineer like Purja, known for his record-breaking achievements, is a significant loss to the global climbing community.
Famed British Nepali climber Nirmal Purja and nine other climbers were killed after being swept away by an avalanche on Pakistan's Broad Peak earlier this week, his expedition company said Saturday. Rescue groups are trying to find the bodies."It is with profound sadness and immense heartbreak that we confirm that Nirmal Purja tragically lost his life following the avalanche on Broad Peak," Purja's company, Elite Expeditions, said on social media. "We have also received confirmation that other members of the expedition sadly did not survive."Karrar Haidri, the vice president of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, confirmed the news."This is heartbreaking news for all of us, and we extend our condolences to the families and friends of the climbers," Haidri said.Rescuers backed by military helicopters resumed the search Saturday for six members of a 10-member expedition who were swept away by the avalanche.
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