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SKARDU: Pakistan mountaineering sector marked a milestone in Skardu with the official inauguration of the Karakoram Mountain Guides Association (KGMA), the country’s first national body created by mountaineers.
The event was hosted at a private hotel that brought together numerous mountain professionals from across the country, particularly from Gilgit-Baltistan.
During the event, participants discussed the structure of the new association and its working manual, highlighted the challenges faced by mountain guides in Pakistan, and emphasized the need for training, welfare systems, safety protocols, and stronger representation at national and international levels.
The event also included female members, a positive step toward creating equal opportunities within the profession.
A 17-member governing body was formed through regional representation. Later, the governing body, with full representation of all mountain guides of Pakistan, further elected the official office bearers.
The organisation elected its office bearers with renowned climber Sirbaz Khan chosen as President. The three Vice Presidents are Saad Munawar, Zahid Hussain Rajput, and Sajid Ali Sadpara, while Shah Daulat has been appointed Treasurer. Mirza Ali will serve as the General Secretary.
Each elected member brings extensive field experience and a deep commitment to improving the future of Pakistan mountaineers.
The KMGA aims to improve safety standards, create career pathways, provide training, and promote professionalism across the industry.
Moreover, the KMGA will train and develop professional mountain guides in Pakistan, working in collaboration with international mountain guide associations.
The organization’s aim also includes improving rescue response systems and high-altitude safety procedures.
The KGMA will also work closely with the Government of Pakistan and tourism departments to address guide welfare, safety concerns, rescue systems, and all issues directly related to mountain professionals.
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