The body of one NHS Doctor who died while descending a 7,000-metre mountain has been found.
Dr. Asma Mushtaq, a 34-year-old medical professional who worked in obstetrics and gynecology at Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, died while descending Spantik Pakistan on August 20.
The experienced mountaineer had reached the summit in good health before suffering a serious medical emergency at high altitude at around 6,400 meters (21,000 feet).
Her guides immediately tried to save her, but she sadly died, according to the Alpine Club of Pakistan.
Heavy snow, strong winds and treacherous terrain subsequently frustrated efforts to remove her body from the mountain.
A ground team has now recovered Dr Mushtaq’s body from Camp III and has begun the perilous journey to the base camp.
Shigar Deputy Commissioner Sher Afzal said local mountaineers carrying her body reached Camp II on August 31.
However, fresh snow continued to fall at higher altitudes, threatening further delays.
Dr. Asma Mushtaq (pictured), a 34-year-old medical professional who worked in obstetrics and gynecology at Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, died during his descent into Spantik in Pakistan
The experienced mountaineer had reached the summit in good health before suffering a serious high-altitude medical emergency at about 6,400 meters (21,000 feet).
Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said: ‘The search and rescue team has reportedly located the body of Dr Asma Mushtaq outside Camp III.
‘The team is assessing site conditions and finalizing arrangements for safe recovery and controlled evacuation to base camp, taking into account the high altitude terrain and associated risks.’
A six-member team of specialized high-altitude porters made repeated attempts to reach Dr Mushtaq.
A previous mission was suspended after heavy snow and strong winds forced members to withdraw from the vicinity of Camp III.
When they returned, snow had reportedly buried the area where her body was believed to lie, forcing the team to conduct an extensive search.
The recovery could only be completed on foot as helicopters cannot operate at the altitude where Dr Mushtaq died.
A Pakistan Army helicopter has been cleared to transport her body from the base camp to Skardu once the ground team completes the descent and weather conditions permit.
Dr. Mushtaq, who was originally from Lahore, was part of a five-member Pakistani women’s expedition to Spantik.
Also known as Golden Peak due to the color created by sunlight falling on the rock face, it stands in the Karakoram Mountains in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Dr. Mushtaq was an experienced climber who had previously completed a winter ascent of the 4,076-meter Musa ka Musalla peak.
She was also associated with expeditions to Rupal and Arandu.
Colleagues in Birmingham remembered her as a respected and compassionate doctor, committed to women, babies and their families.
Dr. Mushtaq, who was originally from Lahore, was part of a five-member Pakistani women’s expedition to Spantik
Emma Stansfield, medical director for women’s health at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Dr Asma Mushtaq.
‘Asma was a highly respected young doctor who was deeply committed to the care of our women, babies and their families.
‘Her warmth and positivity touched everyone who had the privilege of working with her. She will be greatly missed.
‘Our thoughts and condolences go out to Asma’s family and friends at this very sad time.’
The Alpine Club of Pakistan praised the courage of the mountain guides who stayed with Dr Mushtaq and tried to assist her in extreme conditions.
Senior Vice President Karrar Haidri said: “The President and the entire team of ACP extend their sincere condolences to the grieving family, friends and loved ones of Mrs. Asma Mushtaq.
‘We stand with the family and the entire mountaineering community during this difficult time.’
The club said the circumstances surrounding her death and the expedition company’s response would be investigated once teams had safely descended.
