Pakistani mountaineer and UK-based doctor Asma Mushtaq has died after suffering a serious medical emergency while descending Spantik in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The 34-year-old had successfully reached the 7,027-meter summit before the emergency occurred.
According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan, Mushtaq was in good health when she reached the summit.
Medical Emergency During Descent
Mushtaq developed a serious medical emergency while descending the mountain.
The incident occurred at an altitude of around 6,400 meters, or approximately 21,000 feet.
Her mountain guide, Akbar Ali, and expedition guide, Muhammad Amin, immediately came to her assistance.
However, despite their efforts under extremely challenging conditions, they were unable to save her.
Alpine Club Pays Tribute
Alpine Club of Pakistan Senior Vice President Karrar Haidri expressed condolences following Mushtaq’s death.
He said her guides provided every possible assistance after the emergency.
However, the difficult conditions at high altitude made the rescue situation extremely challenging.
The Alpine Club of Pakistan also acknowledged her successful summit of Spantik before the tragedy.
High Altitude Can Create Serious Risks
High-altitude environments can place extreme pressure on the human body.
At such elevations, the body receives less oxygen. This condition can lead to serious medical complications, particularly without adequate acclimatization.
High-altitude sickness can affect the lungs and brain. Severe cases can become life-threatening.
Mushtaq’s emergency occurred during the descent, despite her successful climb to the summit.
Doctor and Passionate Mountaineer
Mushtaq was originally from Lahore and worked in the United Kingdom.
She specialized in obstetrics and gynecology, according to her social media profiles.
Alongside her medical career, she remained passionate about mountaineering, travel, and adventure.
She also worked as a vlogger and regularly documented her expeditions online.
Previous Mountaineering Achievements
Mushtaq had previously completed a winter ascent of the 4,076-meter Musa ka Musallah peak.
She was also associated with expeditions to Rupal and Arandu.
In a 2024 social media post, she sought sponsorship for a K2 expedition.
She described herself simply as “a doctor and mountaineer.”
Part of Pakistani Women’s Expedition Team
Alpine Club of Pakistan Secretary-General Ayaz Ahmed Shigri said Mushtaq was part of a five-member Pakistani women’s expedition team.
The team successfully reached the summit of Spantik.
Other members included Zoni Aslam, Zaba Shigri, Shama, and Sohana.
Mushtaq’s death has brought sadness to Pakistan’s mountaineering community. Her successful summit remains part of a significant achievement for the women’s expedition team.
