Govt team with family to get back Odisha mountaineer Kalpana Das’ mortal remains

Bhubaneswar: A three-member team has been formed to bring the mortal remains of Odisha mountaineer Kalpana Das who died in an unfortunate incident while descending world's highest peak, the Mt. Everest on May 23.

The team comprising deceased Kalpana's brother and two other family members will shortly leave for Kathmandu, Nepal while Odisha government will bear the entire cost.

"We will leave for Kathmandu on Monday and will take necessary steps to bring the body of mountaineer Kalpana Das," said mountaineer Ganesh Jena.

The climber from Odisha, Kalpana Das died above the balcony area on Mt Everest on May 23 while descending from the summit. According to reports, at least 14 climbers died allegedly due to mismanagement and overcrowding this season.

Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik earlier expressed grief over Kalpana's tragic death and offered condolences to the bereaved family.

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.

— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) May 24, 2019

BJP National vice president Baijayant Panda also prayed for the departed soul.

Very, very sorry to hear that Indian mountaineer from Odisha #KalpanaDas passed away today after climbing Everest one more time earlier in the day.

May her indomitable spirit inspire others to achieve great heights, and her soul rest in peace. Om Shanti ???

— Baijayant Jay Panda (@PandaJay) May 23, 2019