Karakorum climbers will no longer have to text over InReach to reach the rest of the world. Those days of isolation are apparently over.
Starting today, a new satellite communication tower at the Concordia Glacier will give internet and cellphone coverage to nearby base camps, including K2 and Broad Peak. It is unclear whether the signal also reaches the Gasherbrums.
This initiative by Gilgit-Baltistan aims to promote tourism in the region. “This will help in emergency situations and weather monitoring,” Summit Karakoram wrote.
No doubt the climbers will also update their social media more often. The practical advantages are clear, but it does feel as if the Savage Mountain has lost a bit of its wildness.
