It was in 1987,we the Territorial Army (TA) personnel reached for weekly parade at New Alipore, it was Sunday,25th January. We were advised to report for military duty under rule 33 of TA Act.
I was released from my civil employer and joined for Military duty. A special train left from Sealdha Railway station.I had to take over, the Indian Railway staff was among us, they helped me to note the deficiencies of the train on carriage,electrical and mechanical.After reaching the destination the train was handed over to Indian Railway. We had a telephone line between Guard and our Officer in Charge train.
The kitchens were made in the wagons. The length of our train was long it was not stopping in the platform.
Our vehicles and equipments were loaded.
We were assigned the duty of ground defence of the air field. Lt Col KS Negi with his Company was there. My company deployed from the main gate. Lt Col Negi was at the far end.
Out of three platoons and coy headquater only one platoon had the problem of rain water during rain due to low area.
We had hardly any depth in our deployment with the perimeter road. No toilets were there, it was a difficult situation for hygiene issue.We took steps for that.
A land line was always attainded 24x7. The winter clothing was issued.The food used to come from outside the air base. The distribution utensils were not there for delivery of foods for three times.
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