KARACHI: From the top of 25,263-foot-high Tirichmir the Norwegian expedition have sighted a new mountain towards the south-west in Afghanistan. Professor Arnes Naess, leader of the expedition, told Pressmen in Karachi on Sunday [Aug 6] that he was puzzled to see the snow-clad peak as high as Tirichmir itself. It was not shown on the maps. He wondered if it was a mere optical illusion. But the possibility of the existence of the mountain could not be ruled out as the country was not properly surveyed, he said.

The expedition was charmed by the Scenic beauty of Tirichmir and the surrounding areas. The effect was heightened by the sharp contrast between the green valleys and rugged, snow-clad mountains. Chitral they characterised as a “hill-garden,” ideal as a health resort. “You are lucky in having such a beautiful hill-station. It is a great place for tourists”, observed a member of the expedition. The area had plenty of big-game too, it was stated.

Prof Naess said his party was … impressed by the people living in that area. He was full of praise for their hospitality, hard-hood and adventurous temperament. — Staff correspondent

Published in Dawn, August 7th, 2025