The body of Swat mountaineer Syed Ali Shah remains stranded on Falak Sar Peak, the highest mountain in Kalam Valley, 10 days after he died in a climbing accident. Fellow climbers have launched a public fundraising campaign to finance a recovery mission, saying no official retrieval operation has been initiated.
Syed Ali Shah, a resident of Khwazakhela in Swat, died during the descent from the approximately 5,918-metre Falak Sar Peak after a climbing rope reportedly snapped. His death was confirmed several days after the accident, but difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions have delayed efforts to recover his body.
Fatal Accident During Descent
According to members of the expedition, a six-member climbing team began the ascent on July 5 and successfully reached the summit on July 10.
While descending the following day, Syed Ali Shah fell into a deep ravine after the rope broke. Three other climbers were also affected by the incident and were later rescued and shifted to Saidu Sharif Hospital for treatment.
Climbers Launch Public Fundraising Campaign
Team members said the body had to be left at the accident site because of dangerous weather conditions and the difficult mountain terrain.
In response, fellow mountaineers have started a public fundraising campaign to organize a recovery operation. According to the organizers, approximately Rs800,000 has been collected so far, with donations continuing.
Experienced Team Begins Recovery Operation
A four-member team of experienced climbers from Gilgit-Baltistan, supported by three local climbers from Swat, has departed for the recovery mission.
The team estimates it will take four to five days to reach the accident site, while the complete operation could take up to 10 days, depending on weather conditions.
Climbers Criticize Lack of Official Response
Members of the mountaineering community expressed disappointment over what they described as the absence of an official recovery effort by the provincial government and district administration.
They said they were compelled to organize the mission independently to bring the climber’s body home.
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