Tragedy on K2: Avalanche Claims Life of Pakistani Mountaineer Iftikhar Hussain

A deadly avalanche hit Camp 1 on K2 — the world’s second-highest mountain, standing at 8,611 meters — on July 18, 2025, claiming the life of renowned Pakistani mountaineer Iftikhar Hussain from Sadpara, near Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan.

The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 PM as a group of climbers was descending from Camp 2. Hussain was part of an international expedition team comprising four climbers. While two members managed to return safely to the Advance Base Camp, one foreign climber sustained minor injuries. Tragically, Hussain succumbed to the avalanche.

His body was recovered and airlifted to Skardu by a Pakistan Army helicopter, where he was laid to rest in his hometown of Sadpara — a village known for producing some of Pakistan’s most celebrated high-altitude climbers.

The Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) expressed deep sorrow at the loss. ACP President Major General Irfan Arshad called it a major blow to the nation’s mountaineering community. Social media tributes, especially on X (formerly Twitter), poured in from around the globe, hailing Hussain’s courage and dedication. Many posts also referenced the inherent danger of K2, often dubbed the “Savage Mountain” due to its unpredictable weather and frequent avalanches.

In 2024 alone, Gilgit-Baltistan’s tourism department issued 175 climbing permits for K2, reflecting the mountain’s enduring appeal despite its deadly terrain. The ACP stressed the growing need for improved safety protocols and disaster preparedness, especially as climate change continues to destabilize ice and snow conditions in high-altitude regions.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 19th, 2025

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