Pakistan’s renowned female mountaineer, Naila Kiani, has expressed joy and gratitude over a significant reduction in helicopter evacuation charges for climbers, calling it a long-overdue change that will save lives and make high-altitude expeditions more accessible.
In an emotional post shared on her social media, Kiani wrote: “I’m in tears again today. BIG NEWS regarding helicopter rescue costs.”
Reflecting on her advocacy efforts, she noted that last year she publicly spoke out against the extremely high charges climbers faced during medical emergencies in the mountains. “Many told me to stay quiet and said no one would listen,” she wrote.
According to Kiani, a round-trip helicopter evacuation from K2 Base Camp previously cost an average of USD 26,000—among the most expensive in the world. She had raised this concern with Army officials, stressing the financial burden on sick and injured climbers.
Her persistent advocacy has now led to a policy change: previously, two helicopters were dispatched to Baltoro due to the area’s security sensitivity. Now, only one helicopter is being sent, cutting the average cost to below USD 9,900—nearly one-third of the original amount.
Kiani extended her gratitude to the Pakistan Army, COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir, Commander FCNA Gen. Hassan Azhar, Gen. Irfan Arshad, Dr. Anis ur Rahman, and President of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, along with the team at @greentourism_pvtltd, for their roles in making this change a reality.
“This is proof that real change is possible when the right people act with integrity and purpose,” she said, crediting Gen. Irfan Arshad, who recently assumed his new role, for working tirelessly behind the scenes.
Kiani also emphasized the importance of speaking up: “I often struggle to get people to speak up with me. Most stay silent, and I understand their fear. But in the spirit of Muharram, I hope more people find the courage to stand up for what’s right. Speaking for the vulnerable is a legacy worth carrying forward.”
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