KARACHI: The government has been urged to launch an immediate rescue operation to recover the body of Pakistani mountaineer Dr. Asma Mushtaq, who reportedly died while descending from Spantik Peak after falling ill at high altitude.
Chief Executive Officer of RK Sports Management Rais Khan said Mushtaq’s body remains at an altitude of around 6,400 metres, describing the situation as a serious humanitarian concern and calling for urgent intervention by the authorities.
Mushtaq had successfully summited Spantik Peak before her health deteriorated during the descent, according to Khan. Her death has left her family awaiting the recovery and return of her body from the mountain.
Calls for immediate recovery operation
Khan said the government and relevant authorities should take immediate steps to bring Mushtaq’s body down safely and coordinate with experienced mountaineering and rescue teams.
He also referred to reports from the family that around Rs3 million is being demanded for the recovery operation. Khan said that, if accurate, the reported amount places an additional burden on the bereaved family and warrants attention from the authorities.
Concerns over mountaineering safety
Khan said Pakistan collects various fees from local and international mountaineers but needs stronger emergency response and rescue infrastructure in high-altitude areas.
He called for properly equipped rescue centres, trained personnel, helicopters and other specialised equipment to ensure timely assistance during mountaineering emergencies.
He also recommended mandatory medical examinations before expeditions and better guidance for climbers about health risks associated with high-altitude environments.
Impact on Pakistan’s mountaineering sector
Khan warned that inadequate rescue and emergency services could affect Pakistan’s tourism and mountaineering sectors if climbers perceive the country as lacking sufficient safety arrangements.
He urged the government to establish a clear policy for the recovery of deceased mountaineers, including responsibility for rescue arrangements and associated costs.
Khan said a stronger emergency response system would help protect mountaineers and provide greater confidence to both Pakistani and international climbers visiting the country’s mountainous regions.
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