Avalanche on Broad Peak: The Dark Side of Climbing's Elite Pursuit An avalanche on Pakistan's Karakoram mountain range has struck a team of climbers on Broad Peak, leaving 10 members, including renowned Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, feared missing.
This incident raises uncomfortable questions about the risks that elite climbers take for granted and the broader culture of adventure that often prioritizes record breaking over human life.
Broad Peak, the 12th highest mountain in the world, is a challenging ascent even for experienced climbers. Yet Purja has made it his business to conquer some of the most inhospitable peaks on Earth.