KATHMANDU: Nepal’s mountaineering community gathered at Maitighar Mandala on Tuesday evening to honor the climbers who lost their lives in the devastating Broad Peak avalanche in Pakistan’s Karakoram Range. The memorial also became a platform for renewed calls to strengthen government support for Nepal’s mountaineering sector. 
The candlelight vigil was jointly organized by the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA), the Nepal Climbing Sport Association (NCSA), and the Everest Summiteers’ Association. The event brought together mountaineers, trekking professionals, mountain guides, tourism entrepreneurs, diplomats, and members of the public to pay tribute to the victims.
A total of 10 climbers, including six Nepalis including Nirmal Purja (Nimsdai) and four foreign nationals, lost their lives in the avalanche on Broad Peak (8,047 metres). Participants lit candles, observed a moment of silence, and remembered the climbers for their courage, dedication, and contribution to the global mountaineering community.
Among those attending the ceremony was Mike Harker, Public Affairs Chief at the U.S. Embassy in Nepal, who expressed condolences to the bereaved families and stood in solidarity with Nepal’s climbing community by joining the candlelight tribute.
Speaking at the event, NNMGA President Tulsi Gurung said the tragedy highlighted the urgent need for stronger government support for mountain guides and climbing professionals. He called for improved welfare programmes, better insurance coverage, enhanced rescue systems, and quicker coordination during search, rescue, and repatriation operations following mountaineering accidents.
Everest Summiteers’ Association General Secretary Shiva Bahadur Sapkota paid tribute to the late Nirmal Purja (Nimsdai), describing him as one of Nepal’s most influential mountaineers whose achievements brought international recognition to the country. He urged the government to preserve Purja’s climbing equipment and personal belongings by establishing a dedicated museum to inspire future generations.
Concluding the programme, participants stressed that the sacrifices of the Broad Peak victims should never be forgotten. They also called for improved safety standards, stronger emergency response systems, and greater recognition of the men and women who continue to represent Nepal in the world’s highest mountains.
Photo Source: Subash Thapa
