Naila Kiani becomes first Pakistani woman to summit Nanga Parbat

KARACHI: Renowned mountaineer Naila Kiani Sunday became the first Pakistani woman to scale Nanga Parbat — the ninth-highest mountain on Earth.

The 8,126-metre peak, known as the 'Killer Mountain' due to its high fatality rate, has a daunting ascent, made more treacherous by the risk of unstable glaciers, avalanches and storms.

Kiani's summit was confirmed by Secretary Alpine Club of Pakistan Karrar Haidri.

"Today on July 2, 2023, at 10:18am, Naila Kiani scaled the majestic Nanga Parbat, standing tall at an inspirational height of 8,126 metres," Haidri wrote on Facebook.

He further added: "She did this to become the first Pakistani woman to climb Nanga Parbat. Naila has now ascended seven of the enormous 8,000-metre peaks on the planet, establishing her as one of the most talented climbers of our time.

"The legendary Everest, the difficult K2, the commanding Lhotse, the perilous Annapurna, the elusive G1 and the G2 are just a few of the mountains she has conquered before.

"Numerous mountaineers and adventure fans all over the world are inspired by Naila Kiani's unwavering resolve, unmatched abilities, and unwavering attitude. She serves as a bright example of how people can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles."

Nearly an hour after Kiana’s summit, another renowned mountaineer Samina Baig also ascended Nanga Parbat.

Haidri also announced Baig's success on social media.

"Samina Baig, first Pakistani woman to conquer Mt Everest and Mt K2, as well as the first to scale all seven continents. This achievement marks a key milestone in the history of climbing as Wajid Ullah Nagari and ten other international mountaineers successfully scaled Nanga Parbat today, July 2, 2023, at 11:08am PST," he wrote on Facebook. 

He added: "They overcame hazardous terrain, severe weather, and a plethora of challenges thanks to their undying determination, talent, and teamwork. Their success serves as both a source of motivation for aspirant climbers and proof of the unflappable spirit of human endeavour."

Furthermore, he shared the detail of summiteers, who accompanies Baig on the "Karakorum Expeditions Pakistan-international joint expedition 2023".

1. Samina Baig 11:08am (Pakistan)

2. Rizwan Dad 11:08am (Pakistan)

3. Eid Muhammad 11:40am(without o2) (Pakistan)

4. Ahmed Baig 11:40am (without o2) (Pakistan)

5. Waqar Ali 11:40am (without o2) (Pakistan)

6. Saeed Karim. 11:40am (without o2) (Pakistan)

7. Liaqat Karim. 11:40am( without o2) (Pakistan)

8. Wajid Nagri. 11:50am (Pakistan)

9. Suzzane. (Switzerland)

10. Shah daulat. 8:30am (without o2) (Pakistan)

11. Jalaluddin. 4:00pm (without o2) (Pakistan)