A major rescue operation is underway in Pakistan’s Karakoram mountain range after an avalanche struck an international climbing expedition on Broad Peak, leaving at least 10 mountaineers missing. Search teams have located the bodies of four climbers, while efforts continue to find the remaining six despite severe weather and difficult terrain. Authorities have not yet officially identified the recovered bodies. The search is being led by rescue agencies in Gilgit-Baltistan, where helicopters and ground teams are working under challenging conditions.

Among those reported missing is renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, popularly known as “Nims Dai,” who is celebrated for setting the record for the fastest ascent of the world’s 14 highest mountains. According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, the expedition included climbers from Nepal, Pakistan, Oman, the United States, China, and another foreign national. The team reportedly lost communication after the avalanche struck Broad Peak, the world’s 12th-highest mountain, standing at 8,047 metres in northern Pakistan.

Nirmal Purja, 43, is regarded as one of the world’s most accomplished high-altitude climbers. After leaving the British military in 2018, he gained global recognition by climbing all 14 peaks above 8,000 metres in just six months and six days in 2019. He also played a key role in the historic first winter ascent of K2 in 2021 alongside an all-Nepali team. Rescue officials say every available resource is being mobilised to locate the missing climbers, though adverse weather continues to hamper operations.