Kashmir Climbing Relief Update

A bit of an update on the progress of the appeal for experienced climbers and mountaineers to help transport supplies to earthquake-hit villages in Kashmir which we told you about a couple of weeks ago.

The good news is that there's been a tremendous response with more than 50 volunteers from Iran, Europe, the USA and Canada coming forward in response to the appeal from NGO, ADEPT.

In addition, ADEPT tell us that they've had offers of equipment both free and at a reduced price from Vango and Force Ten company AMG Outdoors, while WL Gore are using their huge network of contacts within the outdoors industry to further the appeal.

The latest situation is a little confused with the team still awaiting permission to go to Kashmir, however the team is putting together a detailed plan, so that if and when permission is obtained, it can move as quickly and effectivel as possible and in conjunction with local climbers.

Possible options include setting up a skills training school to enable locals to move safely in harzardous winter mountain conditions as well as the actual movement of supplies on the ground.

Until the project is definitely 'on' though, it's hard for the organisers to obtain funding, though if you're prepared to get involved in raising funds, with a potential alternative use should the Kashmir operation fall through, then there's no reason not to.

It's great to see what is usually a basically selfish recreational activity, potentially doing a lot of good in a desperate situation, so let's help things move forward soon. More information when we have it.

For more details see here or contact UK organiser Douglas Briton.