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Why is it in the News
Recently, the Jengish Chokusu made headlines due to a challenging rescue operation for a Russian climber trapped at high altitude under severe weather conditions, highlighting the mountain’s demanding terrain and climatic extremes.
Jengish Chokusu, meaning “Victory Peak,” is the highest mountain in Kyrgyzstan and one of Central Asia’s most iconic summits at 7,439 meters (24,406 ft). Located on the Kyrgyzstan-China border within the Tian Shan mountain system, it holds great geographical, strategic, and mountaineering importance.
About Jengish Chokusu (Victory Peak)
- It is Kyrgyzstan’s highest point and the tallest in the Tian Shan range.
- It is located on the Kyrgyzstan-China border, near the Issyk-Kul region in Kyrgyzstan and Aksu Prefecture in China.
- The peak is part of the Kakshaal Too subrange, which is the highest segment of the Tian Shan mountains.
- It stands as the 16th most prominent peak in the world due to its height and isolation.
Geographical Aspects
- 7,439 meters (24,406 feet) above sea level, making it the highest in Kyrgyzstan.
- Part of the vast Tian Shan mountain range, which stretches over 2,800 kilometers across Central Asia.
- Close to Khan Tengri (7,010 m), another famed peak, separated by the South Engilchek Glacier.
- Situated at approximately 42°02′15″N latitude and 80°07′30″E longitude.
- Features glaciers, high alpine valleys, and steep ridges, with climbing routes starting commonly from the Zvozdochka glacier.
- Lies at the confluence of Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul Region and Xinjiang, China.
FAQs
Q1: What is the highest mountain in Kyrgyzstan?
A1: The highest mountain in Kyrgyzstan is Jengish Chokusu (Victory Peak), standing at 7,439 meters.
Q2: Where is Jengish Chokusu located?
A2: It lies on the border between Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk-Kul region and China’s Xinjiang region as part of the Tian Shan mountain system.
Q3: Why was Jengish Chokusu in the news recently?
A3: A Russian climber was stranded at nearly 7,000 meters due to severe weather conditions; rescue efforts were suspended owing to the extreme environment.
Q4: What is the significance of the Tian Shan mountain range?
A4: Tian Shan is one of the longest mountain ranges in Asia, stretching over multiple countries and hosting many of Central Asia’s highest peaks including Jengish Chokusu and Khan Tengri.
