Stranded Pakistani Climber Struggles with Snow Blindness on Nanga Parbat Expedition

Pakistani climber Asif Bhatti, who embarked on the perilous final summit push of the treacherous Nanga Parbat mountain, is currently stranded due to snow blindness, as reported by the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) on Monday. Secretary of the ACP, Karrar Haidri, expressed concern over Asif’s condition, stating that he is stuck at camp 4, situated at an altitude of 7,500 to 8,000 meters. Urgent assistance is required to aid him.

According to Haidri, several climbing teams were attempting the summit, and some members conveyed the distressing news about Asif’s snow blindness. Rescuing him would necessitate the use of a helicopter, but for that to happen, Asif must descend to an altitude of approximately 6,000 to 6,500 meters.

Asif embarked on this expedition alongside renowned Pakistani mountaineer Lt Col (R) Dr Jabbar Bhatti, Dr Naveed, Saad Muhammad, and Faheem Pasha. Haidri confirmed that Asif’s fellow team members had not yet initiated their final summit push.

In a commendable act of bravery, climber Shehroze Kashif has volunteered himself for the rescue mission. He humbly appealed to the relevant authorities and departments to arrange transportation for him, enabling him to assist Asif.

Nanga Parbat, with a staggering 21% fatality rate, maintains its position among the top five most treacherous mountains globally. Over the years, 85 climbers have tragically lost their lives while attempting to conquer its formidable heights. The mountain has earned the grim moniker of the “Killer Mountain” due to its alarming number of casualties.

Pakistan stands shoulder to shoulder with Nepal in terms of the number of peaks surpassing 7,000 meters. Nanga Parbat, known for its unforgiving nature, serves as a stark reminder of the extreme risks and challenges faced by mountaineers who dare to take on its imposing slopes.