Tracking Signal Shows Movement as Search for Nirmal Purja Continues on Broad Peak

Kathmandu—Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, popularly known as Nimsdai, remains out of contact following an avalanche on Pakistan’s Broad Peak. However, data from his tracking device continues to show changes in location, according to his business partner and House of Representatives member Mingma Gyabu Sherpa.

Sherpa said the tracking data initially indicated that Purja had moved downhill during the avalanche. After briefly remaining in one location, the device reportedly began showing further movement, providing rescue teams with an important lead in determining his position.

The avalanche occurred on Thursday on the 8,047-metre Broad Peak in Pakistan’s Karakoram mountain range. Around 10 climbers associated with different international expedition companies reportedly lost contact following the incident.

Initial search efforts have already begun from the base camp. A Pakistani climber and a Nepali climber have travelled towards the suspected accident site by land to verify a location detected near the foot of the mountain.

Bad weather has so far prevented helicopters from joining the rescue operation. Pakistani rescue authorities and the Alpine Club of Pakistan are preparing to begin an aerial search as soon as weather conditions improve.

Sherpa said he remains in direct contact with the Alpine Club of Pakistan and members of the country’s mountaineering community for verified information. Search and rescue efforts for Purja and the other missing climbers remain underway.