Chinese Army Removing Tents, Withdrawing From Certain Areas In Galwan Valley: Report

NEW DELHI: In what can be termed as a major breakthrough and first sign of disengagement, the Chinese Army is removing tents and moving back from certain areas of the Galwan Valley in Eastern Ladakh, a news agency reported citing sources.

The disengagement of the Chinese troops has started as per an agreement between the Corps Commander's of the two sides, the report read.

The Chinese Army is seen removing tents and structures at Patrolling Point 14, it said and also similar movement of vehicles of the Chinese Army is seen at Gogra Hot Spring area.

The standoff locations in Eastern Ladakh include, South to North, Finger 4 along the Northern Flank of Pangong Tso, Gogra Post (Patrolling Point 17A), Patrolling Points 14 and 15 in Galwan Valley and Y-Junction in Depsang Bulge, a leading daily

The Indian and Chinese armies are locked in a bitter standoff in multiple locations in eastern Ladakh for the last seven weeks. Tensions escalated after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a violent clash in Galwan Valley on June 15. The Chinese side also suffered casualties but it is yet to give out the details.

India has been insisting on restoration of status quo ante in all areas of eastern Ladakh to restore peace and tranquillity in the region.

India and China have held several rounds of diplomatic and military talks in the last few weeks to ease tension in the region. However, there was no visible sign of end to the standoff though the two sides agreed to initiate disengagement of the forces from the region.

(With inputs from PTI)