An Australian mountaineer, Chin Tark Chan, tragically died on Himlung Himal (7,126m) after multiple rescue attempts were hindered by adverse weather and delays in longline helicopter approval. Chan was part of an expedition organized by 8K Expeditions Pvt. Ltd.
According to Pemba Sherpa, chairman of 8K Expeditions, Chan fell ill at high altitude and was unable to descend independently. The incident underscores the dangers of high-altitude climbing, where sudden illness can quickly become life-threatening.
Rescue Efforts Hampered by Weather and Approvals
Rescue operations began on October 27, when 8K Expeditions arranged a Prabhu Air helicopter for a high-altitude evacuation around 6,700 meters. Sherpa stated, “The helicopter made two attempts to land but couldn’t due to the extreme altitude and poor weather conditions.”
When aerial evacuation proved impossible, two Sherpas were dispatched from base camp to Camp III (6,200m) to assist Chan. Despite their efforts, worsening weather and heavy snowfall made the descent extremely difficult. Chan passed away during the rescue attempt at approximately 6,100 meters at around 10 a.m. on October 29.
Delays in Longline Rescue Criticized
Pemba Sherpa expressed profound grief over Chan’s death, describing him not only as a client but also a personal friend. “I feel very sad that we couldn’t save him. He was like a brother to me,” Sherpa said.
Sherpa also criticized Global Rescue for delays in approving a longline helicopter operation, which could have saved Chan’s life. “If the longline operation had been approved on October 27, the client might still be alive. By the time another helicopter was arranged, the weather had deteriorated,” he added.
Equipment and Operational Challenges
At the time of the incident, the only available longline rescue equipment was engaged in an emergency operation on Ama Dablam, preventing immediate deployment to Himlung Himal. Sherpa explained, “After that, the weather worsened, and helicopter flights were no longer possible.”
Chan had not reached the summit of Himlung Himal, turning back from around 6,800–6,900 meters due to illness. Despite the expedition team’s best efforts, the extreme conditions and logistical delays prevented a successful evacuation.
Recovery and Ongoing Efforts
Following the tragic incident, Chan’s body is being brought down to Camp I by a team of five Sherpas. Recovery operations are ongoing, with Sherpa emphasizing the dangers faced by climbers at high altitudes and the challenges of rescue operations in the Himalayas.
The expedition team and Sherpas mourn the loss of Chan, highlighting the risks inherent in high-altitude mountaineering, even for experienced climbers. The incident also raises concerns about coordination and timely approvals for high-risk rescues in Nepal’s remote mountains.
