China strengthens Army deployment along LAC amid 'friction' with India

New Delhi: Chinese media reports suggest that the Chinese People's Liberation Army is strengthening its facilities and soldiers presence along the Line of Actual Control with India. The preparations were made in anticipation of 'small frictions' with India, Chinese mouthpiece The Global Times reported.

In addition to conducting multiple drills on the plateau, the PLA has been streamlining logistics so that PLA troops can remain stationed for prolonged periods at high altitudes during the winter, especially when temperatures drop sharply to well below zero. New equipment like vests and knee protectors have also been distributed amongst the soldiers. The PLA took advantage of the period just before winter set in to complete construction and ensure supply lines.

A PLA Daily report said a type of balanced-air-pressure chamber for oxygen therapy was put into use for troops under the Hotan military sub-command of the PLA Xinjiang Military Command in mid-October. India and China have been locked in a stand-off for most of the year with a clash at Pangdong lake resulting in the deployment of thousands of soldiers on either side. Talks have been ongoing to defuse tensions.

Chinese media had also broadcast reports of the PLA building more airports in border areas such as several provinces in Tibet. Among the three new airports to be built in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) are those at Lhunze county, Tingri county and Burang county, close to the border with India, official media had reported earlier this year. The airport construction is expected to make the movement of troops and supplies much easier.