Indian Army Setting Up Arctic Tents At LAC, Anticipates Prolonged Stand-Off With China In Ladakh

Anticipating a long stand-off with the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) along the LAC in Ladakh, the Indian Army has started preparation in the area for a longer stay with the construction of insulated habitats for troops, including pre-fabricated huts and arctic tents, and massive advance winter stocking for rations and other essential supplies.

The Army is also procuring foreign and domestic specialised clothing and gear for its troops for the long winter deployment ahead, reports Times of India.

The development comes amid the stalled disengagement process in eastern Ladakh with China. Despite several rounds of talks at the military level between both the countries, the Chinese troops are yet to withdraw from the 8-km stretch that the PLA has occupied from Finger-4 to Finger-8 on the north bank of Pangong Tso since early-May.

Besides, China has also increased number of troops along the strategically important Daulat Beg Oldie sector in Ladakh and has started construction activities in Depsang plains.

In a bid to counter the Chinese troop buildup, India has also deployed over 30,000 troops in the forward areas in the eastern Ladakh.

Earlier last month, the Indian Army has reportedly kicked off massive "advance winter stocking" for rations and other essential supplies for its troops. Further, the construction of insulated habitats for troops including pre-fabricated huts, arctic tents and large containers, is also now underway.

The supplies of diesel, kerosene and aviation fuel have also been "moved up" in the high-altitude region.

Deliveries for 45 products including specialised winter clothing and other personal gear like snow goggles, layered gloves and socks for troops have also started.

The Indian Army had inked multiple contracts with foreign and domestic manufacturers for the supply of the specialised winter clothing and gear.