The Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) government has decided to review and update its 1999 Trekking Rules and Regulations after a series of deadly mountaineering accidents in the region.
The decision comes after a July 30 avalanche on Broad Peak hit a 10-member international expedition. All 10 climbers were later confirmed dead, including renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja and Pakistani climber Sohail Sakhi. The recovery operation was made difficult by extreme weather and high altitude.
The government is also reviewing the rules following the death of Pakistani climber Dr Asma Mushtaq on Spantik Peak on August 20. The 34-year-old died while descending after suffering a high-altitude medical emergency at around 6,400 metres. Her body was recovered nearly 10 days later after several recovery attempts were delayed by bad weather.
Chief Minister (CM) Amjad Hussain has directed the relevant authorities to conduct a detailed review of the existing rules, procedures and standard operating procedures. The aim is to identify rules that are outdated, ineffective or incomplete.
The government will also reassess insurance arrangements for liaison officers, mountain guides and porters.
The revised rules will focus on search-and-rescue operations in remote and restricted areas, helicopter evacuations, weather forecasting, early-warning systems, communication facilities and emergency support.
Authorities also plan to introduce a digital permit and registration system and improve coordination between government departments and other organisations involved in mountaineering operations.