Key Takeaways
- A Pakistani expedition successfully crossed the Phargam An Pass for the first time in 27 years.
- Women climbers reached the summit, marking a historic achievement.
- The expedition aims to promote sustainable adventure tourism in Upper Chitral.
Pakistani climbers have reopened the historic Phargam An Pass in the Hindu Kush mountains after a 27-year hiatus. The successful crossing and ascent of this remote high-altitude route, supported by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA), marks a significant milestone for mountaineering enthusiasts and adventure tourism in the region.
The expedition, led by local guide Zamurd Khan, included several notable climbers such as Kamran Khan, Mehrosh Akhtar, Samar Khan, Noman Khan, Noormal Rehman, Zohaib Khan, Omar Khitab Sheerani, Sohniya Babar, Amina Shabbir, and Madeeha Syed. Among them, Mehrosh Akhtar became the first woman to reach the summit of Phargam An Pass, alongside Chitrali sisters Smell Rose and Madhu Shala Akhtar.
The team navigated challenging terrain, including glaciers, steep snow slopes, loose rock, and avalanche-prone areas. They reported that changing mountain conditions had significantly altered the route since previous crossings, with rockfalls and retreating glaciers posing new challenges. During their climb, they rediscovered a memorial plaque dedicated to Austrian mountaineer Georg Kronberger, who died in the area in 1975.
The expedition is part of the KPCTA’s Tirich Mir Project, which aims to identify and document historic trekking routes and promote sustainable adventure tourism in Upper Chitral. Officials stated that reopening Phargam An Pass would help showcase the region's mountaineering potential while preserving its exploration heritage. The project also seeks to encourage responsible tourism practices that respect local culture and environment.
Kamran Khan, one of the expedition members, said: 'The route has changed dramatically over the years. It was challenging but rewarding to navigate through such terrain and make history by being among the first to cross this pass in decades.'
Local guide Zamurd Khan added: 'This expedition not only highlights the beauty and adventure potential of our region but also underscores the importance of preserving these historic routes for future generations.'
The successful reopening of Phargam An Pass is expected to attract more tourists and climbers, boosting local economies and promoting cultural exchange. The KPCTA plans to continue documenting such routes and developing them as part of their broader tourism strategy.
In conclusion, the expedition has not only reopened a historic pass but also set new benchmarks for women in mountaineering while contributing to sustainable adventure tourism initiatives.
The route has changed dramatically over the years. It was challenging but rewarding to navigate through such terrain and make history by being among the first to cross this pass in decades.
Kamran Khan, Expedition Member
This expedition not only highlights the beauty and adventure potential of our region but also underscores the importance of preserving these historic routes for future generations.
Zamurd Khan, Local Guide
