Pakistani mountaineer Dr Asma Mushtaq has died after suffering a serious medical emergency at high altitude while returning from Spantik Peak in the Karakoram mountain range.
According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP), Asma had successfully reached the summit of the 7,027 metre high Spantik mountain and was reportedly in good health when she completed the climb.
However, during her return, at an altitude of around 6,400 metres, she developed a serious medical emergency.
The Alpine Club said her mountain guides immediately responded to the emergency and made every possible effort to save her despite the extremely difficult conditions at such a high altitude.
Karakoram Calling Treks also confirmed the incident. According to the organisation, Mushtaq’s mountain guide Akbar Ali, along with another guide, provided emergency assistance after her condition suddenly deteriorated.
However, despite the efforts of the guides, she could not survive.
ACP Senior Vice President Karrar Haidri expressed condolences over Mushtaq’s death and extended sympathies to her family, friends and Pakistan’s mountaineering community.
Background of Asma Mushtaq
Asma Mushtaq originally belonged to Lahore but was working in Britain as a doctor. According to reports, she specialised in obstetrics and gynaecology.
Mushtaq had a keen interest in mountaineering, travelling and outdoor adventures. She regularly documented her journeys, expeditions and experiences through social media.
Her successful ascent of Spantik represented another major achievement in her mountaineering journey.
Mushtaq’s death has brought a tragic end to an expedition in which she had already achieved the demanding task of reaching the summit.
The Alpine Club of Pakistan has expressed sorrow over the loss and offered condolences to everyone affected by her death.
Also read: Body of missing climber found on Broad Peak