Pakistan Army Aviation has successfully recovered the bodies of seven foreign climbers who went missing after an avalanche struck Broad Peak, one of Pakistan's highest mountains in the Karakoram range.
The rescue operation also recovered the partial remains of an American female climber, while efforts to locate the remaining missing climbers continue.
The large-scale search and rescue operation was launched after an avalanche on Broad Peak left 10 climbers missing.
According to the latest update, Pakistan Army Aviation successfully recovered the bodies of seven climbers from the avalanche-hit area.
The rescue teams also recovered the partial remains of an American female climber during the operation.
Bodies shifted to Skardu
Following the recovery mission, Pakistan Army Aviation transported the bodies of the seven climbers, along with the partial remains of the American climber, to Skardu.
The operation was carried out under challenging conditions in one of the world's most difficult high-altitude environments.
Also Read: Broad Peak avalanche: 4 bodies recovered, search on for missing climbers
The group of missing mountaineers included climbers from the United States, China, Nepal, Oman, and Pakistan. The recovery operation brought closure for several families, although search teams are still looking for the remaining missing climbers.
Search continues
Authorities said the bodies of the Pakistani and Nepali climbers, as well as the remaining remains of the American female climber, have not yet been recovered.
Officials attributed the delay to severe weather conditions and continuous avalanches, which have made rescue operations extremely hazardous.
Also Read: Famed climber Nirmal, 9 others die in Broad Peak avalanche
Search efforts will continue as soon as weather conditions permit.
Officials pay tribute to climbers
Civil and military officials, diplomatic representatives, and the district administration in Skardu paid tribute to the deceased climbers.
They acknowledged the courage and passion of the mountaineers while expressing condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
The incident highlights the risks faced by climbers attempting some of the world's most challenging peaks, where unpredictable weather and avalanches remain constant dangers.
