WEB DESK: Young Pakistani climber Shehroze Kashif, renowned for raising Pakistan’s flag atop all 14 of the world’s highest peaks above 8,000 meters, has once again expressed his disillusionment with the government’s inability to keep its repeated pledges of support.
Sharing his frustrations on his X account, the 22-year-old mountaineer the youngest Pakistani to conquer all 14 eight-thousanders said, “The government promised me a cash reward multiple times, but everyone seems to have forgotten.” Despite receiving national honors, including the Hilal-e-Imtiaz earlier this year, Kashif claims he has yet to receive any financial compensation.
“My government pledged to support me, yet that promise was abandoned. I sold my land, my vehicle, and am still in debt from my previous climbs. How can they do this to someone who brought pride to Pakistan by climbing all 14 peaks?” he questioned.He tagged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, and Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, urging them to pay attention to his plight.
In an interview with Geo News, Kashif shared that his passion for mountaineering has come at a significant personal toll. “I have spent nearly 40 million rupees to make my country proud,” he revealed.Kashif’s journey started at the age of 11 when he scaled Makra Peak, standing at 3,885 meters. He later became the youngest person to summit Everest and K2, earning the nickname “Broad Boy” after conquering Broad Peak, his first eight-thousander.
Despite his remarkable achievements, Kashif now faces serious health issues stemming from a risky spinal surgery. “There are rods in my back now. Walking is difficult, and no one has taken responsibility for my medical expenses,” he explained.He questioned how someone who brought international recognition to Pakistan could be treated this way. “How can anyone treat a person like me, who has climbed all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters?” he asked.
“If this situation persists,” he warned, “I may have to consider leaving the country for my future.”
This is not the first time Kashif has voiced disappointment. In 2022, he publicly lamented the lack of government support despite his record-breaking accomplishments and global recognition.The cost of reaching Everest alone was approximately $60,000. Yet, years have passed, and promises remain unfulfilled and Kashif’s climb, it seems, is far from over
