Aug 02, Kathmandu - A complex and perilous rescue operation has commenced to recover the bodies of ten climbers, including renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, who lost their lives in a devastating avalanche on Pakistan's Broad Peak last Thursday.

According to Mingma David Sherpa, the leader of the rescue expedition and a veteran mountaineer, the safety of the rescue team is the top priority as efforts are underway in multiple phases to bring the bodies down from the high-altitude, remote terrain.

Due to the challenging geography and extreme altitude, direct helicopter evacuation is impossible. Therefore, initial recovery involves ground teams carrying the bodies on foot from the upper camps to Camp-1.

If weather conditions remain favorable, the plan aims to transfer the bodies from Camp-1 to the Japanese Camp, located at a lower altitude, by Monday.

Sharing details of the operation, Mingma David Sherpa stated, “The primary goal of this difficult mission is to safely and respectfully bring our fallen comrades back home. The safety of the rescue team is our highest priority, and every decision is made with their protection in mind.”

If weather remains stable and there is no increased risk of avalanches, the bodies will be transported down to the valley via Pakistani military evacuation helicopters stationed at the Japanese Camp.

Sherpa expressed deep gratitude for the swift coordination and support from the Nepal and Pakistani governments, embassies, the Pakistani Army, the Alpine Club of Pakistan, and the international mountaineering community following this tragic incident.

Organizers are appealing for patience and prayers from well-wishers worldwide to ensure the success of this highly risky rescue effort and to bring the fallen climbers home safely.