Noted climber Nirmal Purja among 10 dead in avalanche in Pakistan

Rescuers backed by military helicopters resumed the search Saturday for at least six members of a 10-member expedition swept away by an avalanche on Pakistan’s Broad Peak, officials said.

KATHMANDU — Celebrated Nepali climber Nirmal ​Purja, who set a record for the fastest ascent of the world’s 14 highest mountains, died in an avalanche during an expedition in Pakistan, his company said on Saturday.

“Today it is with profound sadness and immense heartbreak that we confirm that Nirmal ‘Nimsdai’ Purja tragically lost his life following the avalanche on Broad Peak,” his ⁠expedition organising company Elite Exped said in an Instagram post.

“We have also received confirmation that other members of the expedition sadly did not survive,” it added.

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah said he was stunned at the deaths of the climbers, including Purja.

“Only physical journey of the climbers has stopped. But the history of their courage, dedication and contributions will always remain alive and inspiring,” Shah wrote in a social ⁠media post.