World-renowned mountaineer Nirmal "Nims" Purja is among 10 climbers feared missing after an avalanche struck Broad Peak in Pakistan's Karakoram range on Thursday, prompting a major search and rescue operation.
The 43-year-old Nepal-born climber was leading an international expedition on the world's 12th-highest mountain when communication with the team was lost shortly after the avalanche.
Avalanche strikes Broad Peak
According to the Pakistan Alpine Club, the avalanche occurred around midday on July 30 on Broad Peak, which stands at 8,047 metres (26,400 feet).
The expedition comprised 10 climbers from multiple countries, including:
- Nirmal Purja (Nepal)
- Five other Nepalese climbers
- One American
- One Chinese national
- One Omani
- Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi
Authorities have launched ground search operations while helicopter rescue efforts remain dependent on weather conditions around the mountain.
Local reports indicate that two bodies have been located during the search, although their identities have not yet been officially confirmed.
There has also been a small source of optimism after tracking data from Purja's personal device reportedly continued to show movement following the avalanche, though rescue officials have not confirmed what that signifies.
Who is Nirmal Purja?
Popularly known as "Nims Dai," Purja is regarded as one of the greatest high-altitude mountaineers of his generation.
He achieved global fame in 2019 by climbing all 14 of the world's mountains above 8,000 metres in just six months and six days, shattering the previous record of more than seven years set by South Korean climber Kim Chang-ho.
His remarkable achievement was documented in the Netflix film "14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible," which introduced his story to a global audience.
From British Special Forces to mountaineering legend
Before becoming one of the world's best-known climbers, Purja served for 16 years in the British Army.
He initially joined the Brigade of Gurkhas before earning selection into the elite Special Boat Service (SBS), the United Kingdom's naval special forces unit.
In recognition of his military service, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2018.
How his climbing journey began
Purja's passion for mountaineering began relatively late.
According to his foundation, a trek to Everest Base Camp in 2012 inspired him to pursue high-altitude climbing professionally.
He has since completed numerous record-breaking expeditions and founded the Nimsdai Foundation, which supports mountain communities across Nepal.
Why is Broad Peak considered so dangerous?
Located in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region near the Chinese border, Broad Peak is the world's 12th-highest mountain and one of the most technically demanding 8,000-metre peaks.
The mountain is known for unpredictable weather, avalanche-prone slopes and extreme altitude, making rescue operations particularly challenging.
Rescue efforts continue
The Pakistan Alpine Club said every available effort is being made to deploy helicopters and additional rescue resources as soon as weather conditions permit.
Search teams remain on the mountain as authorities continue efforts to locate Purja and the remaining members of the expedition.
As of now, no official confirmation has been issued regarding the fate of any member of the climbing team.
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