April 29, 2024: Two climbers who died in an avalanche on the Tibetan side of the Himalayas will be brought to Nepal by China. After seven months, China has opened the way for their rescue. Along with Nepali climber Kiratmani, two others are still missing in the avalanche. Only the bodies of the deceased climbers will be brought to Nepal with China’s consent.
Shishapangma is the 14th highest peak in the world. American climber Anna Gutu and Sherpa guide Mingma Sherpa died in the avalanche. American climber Jina Maria and her guide Tenzin Lama (Sherpa) have only been permitted to retrieve the bodies this spring season.
To rescue the two missing climbers stranded in Shishapangma, the Nepali team has been allowed by the China Tibet Mountaineering Association. However, due to increased risks, the permit for this season has been revoked, even though it was initially granted for the spring season. A source says, “Everyone was permitted to climb Shishapangma in the spring season, but due to increased risks, the permit for this spring season has been revoked, even though it was initially granted.”
The bodies of Gutu and Sherpa were kept in Camp 2, and now a base camp will be set up there for the retrieval. Those going to retrieve the bodies won’t be allowed beyond Camp 2. Eight climbers and one cook from Nepal are preparing to go to Tibet after seven days.
Tenjing a renowned mountain guide, was also among the casualties. He had previously set a world record by climbing 14 peaks over 8,000 meters in just 92 days, along with Norwegian climber Kristin Harila.
Other climbers who are preparing for the climb have stated that if they obtain permission in September, they will proceed at that time, and if not, they will wait for the spring season of 2025.
