Army to erect 'smart fence' that bears minimal snowfall damage along Line of Control

By Deepshikha Hooda
NEW DELHI:The Army will erect a ‘smart fence’ that bears minimal snowfall damage along the Line of Control. With sample prototypes in place, the Army will also integrate night vision cameras with motion detectors as well as LED lights along the 550-km stretch to thwart any infiltration bids as the snow melts each year.

The fence constructed in 2005, along with night vision cameras, has played a substantial role in curbing infiltration across the LoC. However, according to Army sources, it is damaged every year due to the heavy snowfall. An Army official told ET, "every year after the snow melts the fence undergoes extensive repairs. This leaves a window of opportunity for terrorist looking to infiltrate".

In an attempt to cease this endless cycle, the Army installed three sample designs, prior to the start of winters last year. As the snow melts by March end, the Army will identify the design best suited to withstand the harsh climate.

Along with this, the Army is also looking to integrate night cameras with motion sensor technology to alarm troops of any movement along the fence. Moreover, the Army has already installed LED lights along some stretches of the LoC and by June of this year, an almost 200 km stretch would have LED lights along the LoC, the official added. The fence has proved effective in curbing successful infiltration attempts in the past years.

According to Ministry of Home Affairs data, 2013 saw 90 successful infiltrations. Last year’s data of 65 infiltrations, though shows a declining trend is still deemed as cause of concern by the army. In light of setting up the new Smart Fence the army is looking to ensure zero successful infiltrations along the LoC with an overall decline in attempts.