Skardu

A search team recovered the bodies of Nirmal Purja and three teammates killed in an avalanche on Broad Peak, but three climbers remain missing. The Alpine Club of Pakistan confirmed the remains would be returned to families, while recovery efforts continue.

Austrian mountaineer Markus Kronthaler's remains were recovered from Broad Peak in 2007 by a team of six Pakistani and two Austrian climbers. Pakistan's expanding adventure tourism industry, driven by better infrastructure and social media, has increased climbing activity but also fatalities, with body recovery missions often relying on local improvisation due to limited institutional support. Georg Kronthaler, Markus's brother, developed the LARA app and advocates for avalanche safety.

Torrential rains in Gilgit-Baltistan caused flash floods and landslides, damaging roads, bridges, and infrastructure, stranding thousands including tourists. The Pakistan Meteorological Department warned of continued glacial lake outburst floods until July 26, with multiple key routes like the Karakoram Highway blocked and critical bridges in Skardu and other districts destroyed.

Tourists to Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) face conflicting social media messages about monsoon-related disruptions. While some reports highlight floods and landslides in June, others promote GB's scenic beauty. Officials confirm temporary road closures due to heavy rains but emphasize most routes remain open after clearance, urging travelers to check advisories before departing.