Mountaineer Murad Sadpara Passes Away

Pakistan’s climbing community mourns the loss of Murad Sadpara, a distinguished mountaineer who dedicated his life to saving others. The 33-year-old climber, known for his heroic rescues, tragically lost his battle for survival on Broad Peak, leaving behind three young children who will now have to grow up without their father’s guiding presence.

A Fatal Slip on the Descent

The tragedy unfolded as Murad Sadpara, accompanied by a Portuguese female climber and a Sherpa, was making his descent from the summit of Broad Peak. At an altitude of approximately 5,000 meters, Sadpara slipped, initiating a chain of events that would ultimately prove fatal.

The exact circumstances of his fall remain unclear, but the perilous nature of high-altitude mountaineering is well known, where even the most seasoned climbers can find themselves at the mercy of the elements.

In response to the emergency, renowned Pakistani climber Naila Kiani urgently requested the Pakistan Army to intervene. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Army swiftly deployed four climbers from Skardu to Broad Peak’s “Crampon Point,” the critical area where Sadpara’s life was hanging by a thread. An Army helicopter was utilized to transport two porters yesterday, and two more this morning, to assist in the rescue mission.

Despite the valiant efforts of the rescue team, time was not on their side. The harsh conditions and remote location made the rescue operation incredibly challenging. The climbers, who have often been on the front lines of saving others, found themselves in a race against time to save one of their own. Sadly, Murad Sadpara could not be rescued in time.

The rescue team is now focused on the somber task of bringing Murad Sadpara’s body back to Skardu, where he will be laid to rest. The loss of Sadpara is a significant blow to the mountaineering community, not only in Pakistan but globally.

Murad Sadpara was a climber who exemplified courage, skill, and a deep sense of responsibility towards others. His legacy will live on in the stories of those he saved and the memories of his fellow climbers.

As the mountaineering world grieves, the story of Murad Sadpara serves as a poignant reminder of the perils of the mountains and the bravery of those who scale them. His life, though tragically cut short, was one of service and sacrifice. Murad Sadpara will be remembered as a hero who gave everything to the mountains he loved and to the people he sought to protect.

UPDATE: Murad Sadpara’s body was transferred to the Japanese camp. They will be transferred to the base camp by 2 o’clock today from where they will be transferred to Skardu by army helicopter – Sadiq Siddique