ISLAMABAD: Another female Pakistani mountaineer Sultana Bibi on Monday successfully scaled K2, the second highest mountain in the world. Her ascent, completed early this morning (Monday), places her among an elite group of female climbers from Pakistan who have reached the summit of this notoriously challenging mountain.
Sultana Bibi’s historic climb makes her the third Pakistani woman to conquer K2. Her predecessors include Samina Baig and Niala Kiani, who made their mark on this formidable peak in July 2022. Baig became the first Pakistani woman to summit K2, with Kiani following shortly thereafter.
Sultana embarked on her ambitious journey in June from Skardu, leading a team exclusively composed of six female climbers from Pakistan. Her expedition was complemented by another team comprising climbers from Pakistan and Italy. The ascent was guided by renowned Pakistani mountaineer Sirbaz Ali, known for his expertise in high-altitude climbing.
K2, standing at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet), is infamously known as the “savage mountain.” This moniker was popularized by mountaineer George Bell, who described the peak as “a savage mountain that tries to kill you.”
The mountain is notorious for its severe conditions, including unpredictable weather, frequent avalanches, and treacherous rock falls, all contributing to its high fatality rate. Reports from Ultimate Kilimanjaro highlight a death rate of approximately 23 deaths per 100 climbers, making it one of the most dangerous climbs in the world.
Despite these challenges, Sultana Bibi’s successful summit of K2 stands as a testament to her determination and skill. Her accomplishment not only underscores the growing presence of Pakistani women in the realm of high-altitude climbing but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring climbers worldwide.
