In recent years, Pakistani mountaineers have been scaling new heights and in doing so, they continue to bring immense joy and global recognition to the country.
Their relentless determination, courage and passion for high-altitude climbing are not only individual achievements but also collective milestones for a nation whose natural landscape is a haven for mountaineering enthusiasts worldwide.
On Saturday, Saad Munawar became the first Pakistani to summit the world’s highest peak Mount Everest via the formidable North Side — a route that begins in Tibet.
This side of Everest, less travelled due to stringent regulations and severe conditions, is often regarded as more technically challenging and remote compared to the southern route from Nepal.
Saad’s feat, therefore, is not just an athletic achievement; it is a powerful statement of Pakistani resilience.
Also earlier this month Sajid Ali Sadpara sum-mited Dhaulagiri — the seventh highest peak in the world without oxygen or porter support, while Sirbaz Khan climbed Mt.
Kangchenjunga, the third highest peak, also without supplemental oxygen.
Each success story reinforces the message that Pakistan’s climbers are not only participating but also excelling in the most challenging environments on Earth.
However, these accomplishments also raise an important question: Are we doing enough to support our mountaineers?
The courage and commitment shown by these athletes deserve more than social media applause or isolated congratulations.
Mountaineering, like any other sport, requires long-term investment — in training infrastructure, safety equipment, sponsorship opportunities and international exposure.
Our government must recognise mountaineering as a strategic national asset.
Supporting this sport can have a ripple effect across multiple sectors, most notably tourism.
Pakistan is home to five of the world’s 14 highest peaks, including K2, the second tallest mountain globally.
With right policies, infrastructure, and promotion, we can attract more international climbers, trekkers, and adventure tourists, boosting local economies and reshaping country’s image abroad.
Let us commit building a sustainable future for mountaineering.
Our mountaineers have shown what is possible.
It is now the state’s turn to support them in reaching even greater summits.
