GILGIT: Civil society activists from Gilgit-Baltistan organised a candlelight vigil in Islamabad to pay tribute to the mountaineers who lost their lives in the recent avalanche on Broad Peak.

A large number of citizens from different walks of life attended the event and expressed solidarity with the families, communities and the mountaineering fraternity mourning the loss.

The ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan also attended the vigil and paid tribute to the fallen mountaineers, recognising their courage, passion and contribution to the mountaineering community.

Pakistani mountaineers Nazir Sabir and Ashraf Aman were also among the participants.

Speaking at the event, the two mountaineers paid tribute to the young mountaineers, particularly Sohail Sakhi, and acknowledged their courage, dedication and love for the mountains. They described the loss as a profound tragedy for Pakistan and a great loss to the global mountaineering fraternity. Other speakers said mountains had long been a source of pride, inspiration and identity for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan.

They stressed the importance of remembering those who dedicate their lives to mountaineering and of standing with their families and communities during this difficult time.

Participants lit candles and observed a moment of silence in honour of all those who lost their lives on the Broad Peak.

Published in Dawn, August 9th, 2026