Characteristics of Jungle of Nepal

Question 1

What are the characteristics of Jungles?

Answer 1

TCC-DVD
Terrain
Climate
Distance
Communications
Distance
Visibility 
Disease

Question 2

What are the effects of terrain?

Answer 2

MVUT-W-GF

(a) Movement is slow and laborious. The smaller the party the quicker the progress.
(b) Visibility is restricted both from the ground and air. This adds difficulty in gaining info and providing observed fire support.
(c) Use of mechanical transport is restricted.
(d) There are few features of landmarks. This accentuates the difficulty in keeping direction in map reading.
(e) Water is generally scarce along mountain ranges.
(f) Greater skill is required in CQB.
(g) Fire support by arty and mortar is less effective.

Question 3

What are the effects of climate?

Answer 3

VVEH

(a) Variation in rainfall affects the density of jungle. Tactics and administration should confirm to the type of jungle in which an operation is being conducted.
(b) Variation of temperature and excessive humidity affects battle efficiency and reduces resistance to tropical diseases.
(c) The high percentage of humidity affects equipment. Therefore, suitable modification and greater care and maintenance are necessary.
(d) Excessive rainfall makes land, air and wireless communication difficult. Therefore, forethought planning and as many duplicate means of communication as possible are essential.

Question 4

What are the effects of lack of communications?

Answer 4

ER-MIC

(a) Existing communication and communication centers will invariably be well defended and will have to be fought for.
(b) Movement along existing tracks will subject to frequent ambushes, booby traps and sniping.
(c) It will not be possible to carry heavy equipment. All loads may have to be carried on man pack basis.
(d) Concentration of troops and buildup of administration will take longer in time than elsewhere.
(e) Reserves will have to be kept well forward.

Question 5

What are the effects of restricted visibility?

Answer 5

TD-C(DSM-SLD-NJ)

(a) Troops get a feeling of over powering loneliness and fear.
(b) The defender is forced to observe in all direction and the slightest noise or sound is magnified but difficult to locate.
(c) Create the same problems as for night operation i.e.
(i) Difficulty in command and control.
(ii) Small frontages.
(iii) More time required for preparation and recce.
(iv) Shorter intervals in moves.
(v) Limited objectives in the attack.
(vi) Difficulty in maintaining direction.
(vii) Need for silence.
(viii) Jungle inoculation becomes a vital part of training to overcome fear.