Body of "highly respected" NHS doctor recovered from 23,000ft Pakistan mountain

The body of a “highly respected” NHS doctor who died while climbing down a 23,000ft mountain in Pakistan has been recovered.

Dr Asma Mushtaq, a 34-year-old obstetrics and gynaecology specialist who was also called a “fearless mountaineer”, lost her life while descending the peak on August 20.

The medical professional who worked at Birmingham Heartlands Hospital had reached the towering summit of Spantik before she died on the way down.

She reportedly suffered altitude sickness before falling ill – though an official investigation is underway to determine the full circumstances of her death.

The NHS worker was said to have suffered the serious high-altitude medical emergency at about 21,000ft before her guides tried to save her.

But she sadly died despite their attempts to help her, authorities said

Recovery efforts were hampered by heavy snowfall and powerful winds.

But her body was eventually taken back to base camp safely on Wednesday by a volunteer rescue team.

Mushtaq, originally from Lahore, was remembered by colleagues for her “warmth and positivity”.

Dr Emma Stansfield, medical director for women’s health services at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, told The Times: “Asma was a highly respected young doctor who was deeply committed to the care of our women, babies and their families.

“Her warmth and positivity touched everyone who had the privilege to work alongside her. She will be greatly missed.”

The beloved doctor was also a travel blogger with some 90,000 followers on Facebook.

Mushtaq frequently posted pictures and videos of different hiking trips across the world.

She had previously climbed the 18,000ft Gondogoro Peak, also in Pakistan.

Muhammad Abdullah, a close pal, told BirminghamLive: “Asma was a remarkably talented doctor, a fearless mountaineer, and, above all, a deeply cherished friend of ten years.

“We shared many trips and memories over the decade.”

He added: “I knew her not just for her immense dedication and courage, but for her sweet, humble and deeply kind nature.

“Whether caring for her patients or tackling demanding mountain peaks, she moved through life with grace and warmth.

“Her loss leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who loved her, but her gentleness, intellect and inspiring spirit will remain with us always.”

Mushtaq’s body could only be recovered on foot as helicopters cannot access such high-altitude points.

But a Pakistani army helicopter was allowed to take her body from base camp to Skardu.