Nirmal Purja Confirmed Dead After Massive Avalanche Hits Broad Peak Expedition
Nirmal Purja, the record-breaking British-Nepali mountaineer, has been confirmed dead following a massive avalanche that struck a 10-member expedition on Pakistan's Broad Peak. Purja, who gained international fame for climbing all 14 of the world's highest peaks in just over six months, was among the 10 climbers who went missing on Thursday. At least four deaths have been confirmed, including those of Nadhira Al Harthy, Pur Bahadur Gurung, and Sarah Mallory Geis. Recovery efforts are ongoing, though difficult terrain and hazardous weather have complicated the operation. While some bodies have been brought down, the remains of Nirmal Purja, Wang Zhong, and Nima Sherpa remain at high elevation. Mingma G has committed to personally risk the treacherous section to retrieve them. The disaster has prompted widespread tributes from Nepal, where Purja was a celebrated figure who championed the skills of Sherpa guides. Despite his success, Purja also faced some sexual allegations in 2024, which he denied through his lawyer.
Sources
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Purja’s Body Found; Safety Concerns for Broad Peak Searchers
Explorersweb »
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World-renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja among 10 killed in Pakistan avalanche
CNN
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Broad Peak: Mingma G Determined to Get Purja’s Body Down, Despite the Risk
Explorersweb »
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'Your legacy will live forever': Nepal mourns climber Nirmal Purja
BBC