Gilgit – A Russian couple has achieved a remarkable feat by summiting Nanga Parbat — Pakistan’s ninth-highest peak at 8,126 metres — without the use of supplementary oxygen, marking one of the season’s most impressive alpine-style ascents.
Veteran climber Denis Urubko and his wife Maria Cardell reached the summit via a new, lightly travelled route on the Diamir Face, completing the climb in a fast and minimalist style. The pair began their push from base camp on Saturday and returned safely after successfully reaching the summit.
Urubko is internationally renowned in the mountaineering community, having now climbed all 14 of the world’s 8,000-metre peaks — including seven through new routes and two in winter — all without the aid of additional oxygen.
According to expedition sources, their climb was conducted entirely without Sherpa support or fixed ropes, highlighting the couple’s elite technical skills and endurance. Their route and strategy reflect a purist approach to high-altitude climbing, which is increasingly rare in today’s heavily supported commercial expeditions.
Their successful summit adds to a busy season on Nanga Parbat, which has already seen over two dozen climbers, including several Pakistanis, reach the top in recent weeks under varying weather conditions.
Polish Climber Injured on Broad Peak
In a separate development, Polish climber Waldemar Kowalewski was injured in an avalanche while descending from Camp II on Broad Peak (8,051 metres). He reportedly suffered a leg fracture, while his two teammates remained unharmed. A rescue operation was immediately launched, and Kowalewski was brought to Camp I.
Efforts are now underway to evacuate him via army helicopter to Skardu for urgent medical treatment. Weather conditions and terrain challenges are being monitored closely to ensure a safe airlift.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.
