Pakistani mountaineer Shehroze Kashif, known as the youngest person to climb all 14 of the world’s 8,000-metre peaks, has shared his disappointment with the government for not keeping its promises of support.
Despite being honored with the Hilal-e-Imtiaz and receiving national recognition, Shehroze says he has received little financial assistance.
To fund his expeditions, he had to sell his land and car, spending nearly 40 million rupees and even taking loans. Now, instead of being rewarded, he finds himself in debt.
Shehroze also revealed that he recently underwent spinal surgery due to injuries from his climbs, but he received no help with his medical expenses. The lack of support has made him feel neglected by the very institutions that once celebrated his achievements.
He expressed sadness over the way sports other than cricket are treated in Pakistan, saying that athletes who bring global pride often end up struggling on their own.
For someone who has raised Pakistan’s flag on the world’s highest peaks, he believes the least the government can do is ensure financial and medical security for national heroes.
Shehroze warned that if things don’t change, he might be forced to leave Pakistan to continue his career in a place where athletes are valued and supported.
His story reflects the ongoing struggle faced by many Pakistani sportspeople where recognition doesn’t always lead to real help, and dreams are often pursued at great personal cost.
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