ISLAMABAD, Jul 29 (APP): German Olympic and World Champion biathlete Laura Dahlmeier sustained serious injuries after being struck by a rockfall while attempting to summit Laila Peak (6,094 meters) in the remote Hushe valley of Baltistan, Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) said on Tuesday.
The incident occurred around noon on Monday (July 28), at an altitude of approximately 5,700 metres, Karrar Haidri, vice president of ACP said in a statement.
Dahlmeier was climbing with her mountaineering partner, Marina Eva, when a sudden rockfall hit her, resulting in significant injuries.
The expedition was organized by Iqbal, owner of Shipton Treks & Tours, who immediately alerted emergency services. A coordinated rescue operation was launched, with support from Pakistan Army Aviation helicopters and local high-altitude porters (HAPs).
However, due to the challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions, rescue helicopters were unable to land at the accident site on the day of the incident. Efforts to evacuate Dahlmeier by air continued on Tuesday with ground support teams on standby, awaiting a break in the weather.
Marina Eva successfully descended to base camp and is reported to be in good health. Meanwhile, worsening weather continues to delay aerial access to the injured climber, leaving the rescue team prepared to respond as soon as conditions permit.