RSS
|
|
|
The Siachen Glacier lies immediately south of the great watershed that separates China from the Indian subcontinent in the extensively glaciated portion of the Karakoram that is sometimes called the "Third Pole." The glacier lies between the Saltoro Ridge immediately to the west and the main Karakoram range to the east. The Saltoro Ridge originates in the north from the Sia Kangri peak on the China border in the Karakoram range. The crest of the Saltoro Ridge's altitudes range from 5,450 to 7,720 m (17,880 to 25,330 feet). The major passes on this ridge are, from north to south, Sia La at 5,589 m (18,336 ft), Bilafond La at 5,450 m (17,880 ft), and Gyong La at 5,689 m (18,665 ft) The average winter snowfall is 10.5 m (35 ft) and temperatures can dip to -50 C (-32.4 F). Including all tributary glaciers, the Siachen Glacier system covers about 700 km2 (435 F). The Siachen Glacier boasts the world's highest helipad, built by India. The world's highest battlefield is also located on the glacier at a height of 21,000 feet (6400 m) above the sea level. GSM mobile service was launched in 2009 near army base camp. |