8 Climbers Missing on India’s Second Highest Peak
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Nanda Devi, a 25,643-foot peak in the Indian Himalaya, is considered one of the world's most difficult climbs alongside K2. Sumad Mohan photo.
An international expedition attempting to climb Nanda Devi, India's second-tallest peak, has been struck by disaster. The expedition was led by Martin Moran, an experienced British guide who had significant experience in the Himalayas. According to the BBC, a group of eight climbers (four Britons, two Americans, an Aussie, and an Indian) who had been pushing for the summit were expected back in camp on May 31st. They never made it back to camp, and a rescue attempt was initiated.
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A total of twelve climbers were part of the expedition. Four British climbers were rescued from near base camp, but the location of the remaining eight climbers was initially unknown. However, a later reconnaissance flight located five bodies on the mountain, and officials expect that the remaining three bodies are nearby. Recovery attempts have been hindered by inclement weather and rugged terrain, and authorities are still trying to assess how best to recover the remains.
