High-end SUVs for ITBP troops on Sino-India border was provided by the Govt

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) soldiers will soon get a net zero, self sustainable border outposts (BoPs)

Realising tough working conditions of soldiers guarding the Sino-India border at high altitudes where temperature often drops to minus 40 degree, centre has approved 54 temperature controlled integrated BOPs, 47 of which will be solely for ITBP.

Sources in the force confirmed that the first state-of-the-art composite BOP in Ladakh is almost near completion.

In a first of its kind, Eco-friendly BOP are being constructed at a forward location near the China border. The project is being built under Make in India theme with the force engaging IIT, Delhi and IIT, Roorkee.

The BOPs will reportedly have room for 100 Jawans, mess, toilets, medical room, and office of senior officers at a height of 15,000 feet.

Besides underground bunker for security, the post will have space for each soldier. The BOP will have insulated walls, roof and windows protecting it from severe weather condition especially the sub zero minus temperatures, solar power electricity and heating system, 24 hour liquid water supply and fresh air supply with the help of Geo Thermal ducts with no dependence on fossil fuel.

"Soldiers fight hard conditions maintaining highest level of vigil. The new BOP will make life much easier for the soldier," a source said.

These BOP will maintain the inside temperature at 20-22 degree celsius and are being built at a cost of nearly Rs 20 crore in Lukung Valley.

The ITBP is deployed in Ladakh, Sikkim, Uttrakhand, Himachal. Evenutally, such BOPs will be constructed in the Arunachal region as well.

Union Home Ministry in the recently concluded winter session restated its committment to the development of border infrastructure to strengthen the operational capabilities of ITBP.

This comes in the backdrop of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh ringing in the New Year with ITBP troops in Uttarakhand's Nelong valley along the China border.

Meanwhile, the centre has agreed to provide light weight clothing to the jawans above 9,000 feet, previously only provided to the jawans of BOP at a height of 14,000 feet and above.

The Union Minister also recently assured the force to give better and modern weapons, more snow scooters and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV).