Sultana became the third female mountaineer from Pakistan to accomplish the feat
Another female Pakistani mountaineer Sultana Bibi has scaled K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, registering her name among the few women from the country who have made it to the summit of the savage mountain.
Finishing her ascent earlier this morning (Monday), Sultana became the third female mountaineer from Pakistan to accomplish the feat.
Before Sultana, Samina Baig and Niala Kiani were the first two women to summit the 8,611-metre mount. The former was the first-ever woman from the country to scale K2 in July 2022 and the latter the second with a difference of hours.
Sultana had departed from Skardu in June with two teams of climbers in an attempt to scale the precarious mountain that sits on the Pakistan-China border. Sultana’s team was based entirely on six female climbers from Pakistan, whereas the other team was a joint expedition of Pakistani and Italian climbers.
The lady climber was led by renowned Pakistani mountaineer Sirbaz Ali to the second-highest peak in the world. K2 is famously termed the “savage mountain” after mountaineer George Bell said, “It’s a savage mountain that tries to kill you.”
The mountain’s death zone is extremely dangerous for climbers with its fatality rate being around 23 deaths per 100 climbers, as reported by Ultimate Kilimanjaro. The mountain’s peculiarly unpredictable weather, abundance of avalanches and rock falls, and difficult routes for the summit make it life-threatening for climbers.
Meanwhile, French climber Benjamin Vedrines summied K2 in record time on Sunday, his team told AFP, reaching the top of the world´s second-highest mountain in just under 11 hours.
The 32-year-old specialist in high-speed ascents — made without the aid of oxygen — left K2 base camp just after midnight on Saturday and reached the summit 10 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds later.
The ascent slashes by more than half the previous record for climbing K2 without the aid of bottled oxygen, completed in 23 hours by fellow Frenchman Benoit Chamoux in 1986. Vedrines attempted the summit in 2022 but was forced to turn back after suffering from hypoxia, a lack of oxygen in the blood caused by thin air at high altitudes.
“I took my revenge on this mountain,” Vedrines said in a voice message shared with AFP. “But above all I wanted to reconcile with it by doing things with maturity.” “It was very symbolic for me because I was returning in my footsteps to where I experienced those very unique moments,” he said.
“I really enjoyed seeing the same sections again, but with lucidity this time.” Standing at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet) on the Pakistan-China border, K2 is 238 meters shorter than Everest but is considered more technically challenging — earning it the nickname “Savage Mountain”. Elite climbers regard the mountain, which was first scaled in 1954, as a quintessential achievement, and often attempt to set records on its jagged slopes.
Pakistan: A Paradise for Mountain Lovers
Pakistan is a haven for mountain enthusiasts, boasting some of the world’s most magnificent peaks and mountain ranges. The country’s mountainous landscape is not only a source of immense natural beauty but also a significant attraction for tourists and adventurers from around the globe. Pakistan’s rich array of peaks and its prominent position in global rankings of mountains underscore its status as a premier destination for mountaineering and trekking.
Significant Peaks and Mountain Ranges
- K2 (Mount Godwin-Austen): Standing at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet), K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world and the highest peak in Pakistan. Located in the Karakoram Range, K2 is renowned for its challenging ascent, often referred to as the “Savage Mountain” due to its difficulty.
- Nanga Parbat: Known as the “Killer Mountain” due to its treacherous conditions, Nanga Parbat is the ninth-highest mountain in the world, reaching 8,126 meters (26,660 feet). It is the western anchor of the Himalayas.
- Gasherbrum I: Also known as Hidden Peak, Gasherbrum I stands at 8,080 meters (26,509 feet), making it the 11th-highest mountain globally. It is part of the Karakoram Range.
- Broad Peak: At 8,051 meters (26,414 feet), Broad Peak is the 12th-highest mountain in the world. It is located near K2 in the Karakoram Range.
- Gasherbrum II: This peak reaches 8,035 meters (26,362 feet) and is the 13th-highest mountain globally. It is also part of the Karakoram Range.
- Masherbrum: Known as K1, Masherbrum stands at 7,821 meters (25,659 feet) and is the 22nd-highest mountain in the world.
- Rakaposhi: Rakaposhi, standing at 7,788 meters (25,551 feet), is famous for its prominence and beauty. It is located in the Nagar Valley of the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
- Tirich Mir: The highest peak of the Hindu Kush range, Tirich Mir reaches 7,708 meters (25,289 feet).
Pakistan’s Ranking in Global Peaks
Pakistan is home to five of the world’s fourteen “eight-thousanders” (peaks over 8,000 meters), placing it among the top countries globally for high-altitude mountains. The Karakoram Range, shared with China and India, contains the majority of these towering peaks. This concentration of high peaks makes Pakistan one of the most significant countries for mountaineers worldwide.
A Magnet for Global Tourists
The beauty and majesty of Pakistan’s mountains have attracted tourists, climbers, and adventure enthusiasts from around the world. The rugged terrain, stunning vistas, and the challenge of ascending some of the highest and most difficult peaks make Pakistan a sought-after destination for mountain lovers.
- Tourism: The influx of international climbers and trekkers boosts local economies, fosters cultural exchange, and promotes global awareness of Pakistan’s natural heritage.
- Cultural Significance: The mountains of Pakistan are not only geographical marvels but also hold cultural and historical significance. They are integral to the local traditions and lifestyles of the indigenous communities.
- Natural Beauty: The breathtaking landscapes, including verdant valleys, glacial lakes, and lush forests, contribute to Pakistan’s reputation as one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
Pakistan’s Positive Global Image
Pakistan’s majestic peaks and its commitment to preserving and promoting its natural heritage have bolstered its global image. The country’s ranking in terms of the number and height of its peaks places it among the elite mountain destinations worldwide.
Comparison with the Rest of the World:
- Nepal: Home to Mount Everest, Nepal leads in the number of high peaks, but Pakistan’s Karakoram Range is renowned for its density of high-altitude mountains.
- China: Shares several peaks with Pakistan, including K2 and the Gasherbrum massif.
- India: While India has significant peaks in the Himalayas, Pakistan’s Karakoram Range offers a unique set of challenges and beauty.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s mountains are a source of immense pride and a testament to the country’s natural beauty and adventure tourism potential. The country’s high peaks, including K2, Nanga Parbat, and the Gasherbrum group, position it as a top destination for mountaineers and nature lovers. With its stunning landscapes and significant cultural heritage, Pakistan continues to attract global attention and admiration, reinforcing its positive image on the world stage. The country’s mountainous regions not only offer unparalleled opportunities for adventure and exploration but also contribute significantly to its identity and economy.
Source:- https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1214821-another-pakistani-female-mountaineer-summits-k2