Islamabad (Pakistan), July 31, 2026, BNN Web Staff: Renowned high-altitude mountaineer Nirmal Purja is among 10 climbers feared missing after a powerful avalanche struck an expedition team on Broad Peak in Pakistan’s Karakoram mountain range, according to the Alpine Club of Pakistan.
The avalanche reportedly occurred around noon on Thursday. The entire climbing team has remained out of contact since the incident, raising concerns about the safety of the mountaineers.
In a statement, the Alpine Club of Pakistan said it had received “deeply concerning reports” of an avalanche hitting a group of climbers on the 8,047-metre peak.
According to initial information, the expedition included climbers from Pakistan, Oman, China and the United States. Authorities are working to establish contact with the group and assess the situation.
Purja, a Nepal-born mountaineer, gained international recognition in 2019 after completing the extraordinary feat of climbing all 14 of the world’s mountains higher than 8,000 metres in just over six months.
The Alpine Club said it was coordinating with senior government authorities and relevant agencies to facilitate an urgent search-and-rescue operation.
Efforts are underway to mobilise helicopters and other available rescue resources, although the operation will depend on weather conditions and the challenging terrain around Broad Peak.
Broad Peak, one of the world’s 14 mountains above 8,000 metres, is located in the Karakoram range near the Pakistan-China border. The peak is known for its harsh weather, high-altitude risks and difficult climbing conditions.
