Efforts launched to collect bodies of Russian climbers

MYAGDI, Oct 17: The law enforcement body and the air service providers have launched initiative to collect bodies of the five Russian climbers, who died during an expedition to Dhaulagiri peak.

The bodies of the Russian climbers were found at an altitude of 7,100 metres. Deputy Superintendent of Police at the District Police Office, Myagdi, Bharat Shrestha, said a five-member team of Sherpa reached the Dhaulagiri peak in a chopper of Air Altitude and started collecting the lifeless bodies.

The five-member team under the leadership of proprietor of Seven Summit Trek, Mingma Sherpa, has been deputed to retrieve the bodies. 

The rescue team brought one body at Italy Basecamp from the incident site till 11:00 am and preparation was underway to bring others at the Basecamp, he added.

The climbers had spent a night at the base camp before their ascent. However, they lost contact with authorities at 11:00 am on October 7 They were confirmed dead on October 9. Collection of the lifeless bodies was delayed due to adverse weather and hostile territory.

The expedition was organized by IAM Trekking & Expedition for a total of 14 climbers, but seven decided to cancel their trip midway. However, two climbers were successful to reach atop the peak. 

Earlier, a helicopter had reached the peak to bring the bodies, but returned empty hand. 

Dhaulagiri is the seventh-highest peak in the world. It is located at Dhaulagiri Municipality-14. According to the Department of Tourism, only 14 climbers had received permits for the autumn ascent.