Indian Climber's Body Retrieved After 30 Years on Everest
An Indian climber's remains, frozen on Mount Everest for 30 years and identified by distinctive green boots, are being recovered from the death zone at 8,500 meters after authorities determined they likely belong to ITBP officer Dorje Morup
A mission is nearing completion to bring the remains of Indian climber "Green Boots" back to his family after the body lay frozen on Mount Everest for 30 years. According to BBC reports from August 10, the remains are situated beneath a rock outcrop at approximately 8,500 meters, with the distinctive lime-green climbing boots serving as a landmark for mountaineers over the years. Initially thought to belong to Sewaang Paljor, who died in a severe blizzard in 1996, Indian authorities now believe the remains may actually be those of Dorje Morup, another expedition member, based on survivor testimony and final radio contact evidence.
Moreup was an Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) officer and one of six climbers who attempted to make history by summiting Everest from the Chinese side—a particularly dangerous route. On May 10, 1996, Morup and two teammates, Sewaang Sumlha and Sewaang Paljor, successfully reached the 8,849-meter summit before a severe blizzard struck during their descent, killing all three.
Retrieving the Green Boots remains from Everest is an extremely hazardous undertaking. The location lies in the "death zone," where temperatures plunge to around -40°C and oxygen levels drop to roughly one-third of sea-level concentrations. The north face of Everest also has steeper terrain and fewer rescue support systems than the Nepal side. Experts estimate that 10-12 elite climbers would be needed to install ropes and carry the body down from the dangerous area to a point accessible by helicopter or animals, with typical high-altitude body recovery costs ranging from $40,000 to $80,000, or approximately 1.3 to 2.7 million baht.
The ITBP, which is funding the recovery, is searching for an experienced rescue team and Sherpa climbers specializing in high-altitude body recovery. The goal is to bring Morup's remains back to India by September, after which DNA testing will be conducted to confirm identity before returning the body to his family.
