GILGIT: Lahore-based Ahmed Uzair and Anum Uzair have become the first Pakistani couple to have summited the world’s eighth-highest peak Manaslu — 8,163 metres tall — in Nepal on Sunday.

According to mountaineering company Seven Summit Treks, which spearheaded the climb, the husband-wife duo successfully climbed the peak on Sunday along with three Sherpas.

Alpine Club of Pakistan Secretary Karrar Haidri told Dawn that the duo “have created history” by becoming the first Pakistani couple to summit the peak.

“Pakistan feels incredibly proud of this outstanding accomplishment by Ahmed and Anum,” he said.

Pakistani climber Shehroze Kashif, who himself summited Manaslu recently, also congratulated the couple.

Both Mr and Mrs Uzair are avid trekkers and explorers, with a remarkable climbing record that includes scaling Minglik Sar (6,050 metres) in Shimshal Valley of Hunza and the Hisper (5,246m) peak in Nagar.

The couple, who are parents of two children, have now become the first Pakistani couple to achieve the remarkable feat of conquering an 8,000-metre peak.

Mr Uzair practises law as a barrister, while Ms Anum is a forensic doctor. After successfully summiting their first eight-thousander, they have ambitious plans to conquer more peaks in future.

Mountaineers and members of civil society have extended their congratulations to the couple for their triumphant summit and prayed for their safe return.

On Thursday, Pakistani climbers Naila Kiani and Sirbaz Khan had successfully completed the ascent of Manaslu peak.

The two climbers had commenced their summit attempt on Wednesday from camp 3.

Ms Kiani also became the first Pakistani woman to have conquered nine out of the 14 highest mountains in the world with her Manaslu summit.

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2023