Odisha’s ace mountaineer Kalpana Dash (53) died on the balcony area of the Mt Everest on Thursday afternoon while descending from the peak.
Dash, who was leading a three-member team on this expedition, was alighting from the summit when the tragedy occurred.
Expressing grief, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, “I am saddened to learn about the demise of Kalpana Dash. Her legacy in mountaineering will inspire generations of young women in the State. My condolences to the bereaved family.” Sports and Youths Affairs Secretary Dev said, “Dash had repeatedly brought accolades to Odisha. The State has lost one of its finest mountaineers. We will bring her mortal remains back. It is reported to be at the balcony, approximately 8,600 meter above sea level. We have written to the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu and are in touch with them regarding the search and rescue operation.”
Since the expedition season is coming to an end in the next three days, the embassy has been urged to take up the search and rescue operation on priority and the entire expenses will be borne by the State Government. The family of Dash has been assured all support, Dev added.
Besides Nepal, Dash had scaled several peaks in Europe, South America, America bringing laurels to Odisha.
