Respected Sherpa guide lost in Nepal avalanche

Photo / Wairarapa Times-Age

A famed Sherpa guide is feared dead after being struck by an avalanche while nearing the peak of the 7129m Mt Baruntse in eastern Nepal.

Chhewang Nima was yesterday leading an expedition of seven people up the mountain when he was struck by the avalanche as he was fixing ropes, his agency said.

The accident happened when he was less than 100m from the summit. The other members of the team dug in the snow but were unable to find him.

Nima, married with two young boys, is well-known among the professional climbing circuit and well-respected within his own community for his achievements in scaling the world's highest mountain. He made his last ascent this year, fixing ropes for less experienced groups to make the climb. The only climber who has scaled Everest more times than Nima is Apa Sherpa, who set a record of 20 in May this year.

The poor weather conditions prevented a rescue mission from being launched yesterday, said Jeevan Ghimire of the Sherpa Shangri-La Treks and Expeditions agency for whom Nima has worked for 15 years.

Ghimire said it was possible that because of Nima's skills and experience he may still be alive.

Nima, who had little education, was able to send his children to a private school in Kathmandu on the proceeds from his climbing work. His wife runs a small teashop.

- INDEPENDENT