Russian climber feared dead at Gasherbrum-IV

SKARDU: A Russian climber, Dmitry Golovchenko, is feared dead after reportedly falling from Gasherbrum-IV, a 26,000-foot peak in northern Pakistan.

The incident occurred during an expedition in the treacherous Karakoram Range, known for its challenging peaks.

Golovchenko’s climbing partner, Sergey Nilov, sustained injuries but managed to return to base camp, where he was rescued by helicopter. According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, Golovchenko’s wife raised the alarm after losing contact with him during the climb. A search operation is being planned, but efforts have been delayed due to adverse weather conditions.

This incident marks another tragedy in Pakistan’s climbing season, which has already been marred by multiple fatalities.

In a separate but related development, a five-member Russian team, including Mikhail Mironov, Sergei Nilov, Evgeni Lablokov, Alexey Bautin, and Sergei Mironov, embarked on a mission to retrieve Golovchenko’s body. The climber tragically died in 2023 on Gasherbrum IV.

However, during the retrieval operation at an altitude of 6,400 meters, the team was struck by an avalanche. According to tour operator Ghulam Muhammad, the expedition leader is now missing, and two climbers are trapped at the same altitude with severe injuries, including broken arm and leg bones.

Speaking to The News, Ghulam Muhammad confirmed that two climbers were rescued by army helicopters on Friday.

A local police official in Shigar district, Akhtar Shigri, revealed that Mikhail and Sergei Mironov remain stranded on the mountain. “Their health is critical, and there is little expectation for them to survive the next few days, further darkening the already grim situation,” Shigri stated.

Efforts to launch a commercial rescue mission are underway, with Ghulam Muhammad confirming that a request has been forwarded to Askari Aviation for immediate action.