These articles prompt further writing on a few important aspects for underlining the need of  better study, more discussions and possible improvement in existing SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) especially in the on-going methodologies adopted for supervision and monitoring, reconnaissance and base camp selection in snow-laden remote valleys with icy caps all around.

There exists a system of large glaciers such as Siachen, Saltoro, Baltoro, Biafo, Hispar etc. These are surrounded by very high and steeply peaks making the whole area treacherously inhospitable and difficult even for camping. In the absence of well-prepared and properly-implemented instructions, natural disasters are more likely to occur. Although the unique Pakistani northern territory is quite familiar to our jawans, yet the present day strategic requirements are far more stringent in view of ever-evolving latest technology. The Indians are well-dug on their superiority in the satellite field.

Besides facing the usual problems of sub-zero temperatures, e.g., less oxygen, frost bites, snow blindness, difficulties in surveillance, Pakistanis inevitably need better communications equipment, data collection gadgetry and appropriate health care awareness etc. These are sine qua non to optimise the expenditure incurred on stationing army personnel and posting helping hands. Owing to the unique geographical terrain, only India and Pakistan are supposed to know the hardships and intricacies encountered. Because it is a battle-field, Pakistanis must be leaders in know-how on every aspect; it is sad that this tragedy amply exposes our shortcomings.

The oddity arises from the fact that Hindu Kush, Korakoram and Himalayan ranges have been produced by the northward impact of the subcontinent peninsula hitting Eurasian mainland during the period of continental drifts. Steepiness of peaks and range contours are said to be still undergoing compressive pressures and some of the peaks are conspicuously increasing in height as measured over longer periods of time. This important phenomenon has to be properly understood in relation to glaciers, icy sludges and avalanches. Even the slightest increase in heights would cause the infinitesimally small changing gradients to trigger drifting of loose snow and providing thrust to nearby glacier(s). Coupled with other equilibrium-disturbance causes like global warming and considerable human activity, the whole scenario becomes recipe for disasters, more than any where in the world.

This is an era of undeclared warfare through unconventional weaponry including laser beams that is ever-improving with the help of computer-aided technologies. To be on the safer side, it will not be unwise to presume the under-cover use of such special techniques. Working of HAARP is documented; triggering of earth quakes through resonance-creating equipment is well-known. Above all, it must be remembered that the area is critically sensitive for the two countries.

It has been claimed that HAARP is capable of causing big changes; it can even give a significant tilt to the Earth’s axis. While its use directly through ionosphere is not feasible for this specific area, its special localised version generating controlled beams at specific locations from nearby vantage points cannot be ruled out. How to see to that is an exercise which requires serious thinking. Furthermore, eroding mechanically through secret missions the control points of glaciers (mainly close to edges) to result in well-defined covert outcomes has to be guarded against. Even if these plans appear too risky or somewhat prohibitive due to budgetary constraints (for both sides), yet, we cannot remain oblivious to such eventualities and need to have sufficient funds diverted for on-site studies and preparation of contingency plans on modern lines.

It is assertively stated that a knowledge about glaciers marked as dangerous would not help until and unless expertise in living in these areas is achieved. Let us not forget that nations cherish memories of hearing only good news from battle-fields.

The writer is a retired PTCL Chief Engineer.

The views expressed by this blogger and in the following reader comments do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Dawn Media Group.