LAHORE: Mountaineer Abdul Jabbar Bhatti, who summitted world’s highest mountain Mount Everest on May 21, 2017, received Sitara-e-Imtiaz on Pakistan Day for his services in mountaineering.
Bhatti became fourth Pakistani to reach at top of the Everest after Nazir Sabir, Hassan Sadpara and Samina Baig.
While talking to Pakistan Today, Bhatti stated that he is indebted to his nation and motherland for this honour.
“This is recognition to mountaineering and adventure sports by the state and nation,” the retired military officer said.
“I am sure this must add to the enthusiasm of mountain athletes, especially from the low lands and adventurists in Pakistan,” he added.
The climber further said: “Let us repay to our motherland for all its blessings while advancing hands together, under our flag.”
Talking about his future plans regarding climbing, Bhatti stated that this track has no ‘finish line’.
While descending the Everest, Bhatti lost all his fingers partially due to severe frostbite. He ran out of the oxygen while attempting the summit but still reached the top of the highest mountain.
During the descend, Bhatti and his Sherpa, who was moving ahead of him, were rescued by another team of Sherpas and a German climber Mortiz Werner.
“My Sherpa was dragged by the other Sherpas which can be seen in the video while I was on my feet and Werner accompanied me to the Camp Four,” Bhatti said, adding that it was the German climber who helped him most.
“I was walking slow but was conscious.”
Both Bhatti and his Sherpa, Snage were brought back to lower camps, from where they were airlifted to Katmandu for proper medical treatment.