Amidst the towering peaks of Jammu & Kashmir, soldiers of the Indian Army endure a daily battle against nature’s harshest elements. At 14,000 feet near Razdan Pass, where winter unleashes its fury with relentless snowfall and bone-chilling temperatures plunging well below freezing, survival is the first battle. In this unforgiving landscape, R+D Studio, renowned for its innovative architectural solutions, has unveiled a groundbreaking advancement in military infrastructure: the Permanent Defence (Bunker).
Tasked by the 2 Engineer Regiment of the Chinar Corps, Indian Army, R+D Studio embarked on a mission to design and implement a pilot outpost near Razdan Pass, Jammu & Kashmir, situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet. The primary objective was to improve living conditions for soldiers enduring extreme weather conditions, demonstrating a proactive approach to modern military infrastructure.
Inspired by traditional sandbag constructions, R+D Studio engineered a novel solution in the form of Silica Composite Hollow Blocks (SCHB). These blocks, measuring 13″ x 9″ x 6″, are crafted from recycled foundry dust and plastic waste, making them not only environmentally sustainable but also exceptionally durable. Each SCHB, weighing 7.5 kg, is three times stronger than conventional bricks. The entire bunker, comprising 1800 interlocking SCHBs, is assembled using basic tools in just three days, showcasing remarkable efficiency in deployment.
The bunker’s design incorporates layered walls that progressively narrow from three layers at the base to one layer at the top. Engineered to withstand severe weather conditions, including up to 25 feet of snowfall, the bunker features a robust roof structure that ensures resilience under extreme climatic pressures. Each SCHB wall layer is fortified with compacted earth, providing thermal insulation and rendering the structure both impenetrable and bulletproof. Moreover, an Infra-Red Heating System (IRHS) plate guarantees internal warmth even in temperatures plummeting to -20°C, thereby enhancing operational comfort and efficiency during prolonged deployments.
Beyond its immediate military application, the SCHB technology offers multifaceted benefits. It provides enhanced protection against enemy fire, contributing to operational security, while its recyclable nature ensures minimal environmental impact and potential reuse in future projects.
The introduction of the Permanent Defence (Bunker) by R+D Studio represents not only a milestone in military architecture but also highlights the power of innovative thinking in addressing complex challenges. By combining advanced materials with thoughtful design, R+D Studio has set a new standard for sustainable, resilient and efficient military infrastructure, ensuring that our soldiers are equipped with the best possible facilities to carry out their duties effectively and safely in the harshest of environments.
FACT FILE
Project Name: Permanent Defence (Bunker)
Design Firm: R+D Studio
Location: Near Razdan Pass, Jammu & Kashmir
Photo credits: R+D Studio