Bhubaneswar: Yesterday, mountaineer Kalpana Dash, who was also the first Everester from Odisha, passed away, after successfully scaling Mt. Everest for the second time. Her untimely demise has shocked the nation and the mountaineering fraternity. Kalpana, who was 53, was leading a three-member team on this expedition. She was descending from the summit when this unfortunate event occurred. In addition to Nepal, she had scaled several peaks in Europe, South America, North America bringing laurels to the state.
Expressing grief, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Naveen Patnaik said “I am saddened to learn about the demise of Kalpana Dash while descending from Mt. Everest. Her legacy in mountaineering will inspire generations of young women in the state. My condolences to the bereaved family.”
Vishal K Dev, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Department of Sports and Youth Services, Government of Odisha said, “Kalpana Dash had repeatedly brought accolades to the state and with her loss the state has lost one of its finest. We are committed to bring her mortal remains back to her state. It is reported to be at the balcony, at an altitude of approximately 8,600 meters. 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 recovery operation on priority and the entire expenses will be borne by the state government. The family of late Ms. Dash was also contacted and have been assured all support, he added.
Kalpana Dash was a brave and strong-willed woman who leaves behind an inspiring story for mountaineering aspirants to emulate.
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