BSF troops get special shoes to ease steps at Wagah parade

Wagah : BSF and Pak Rangers at beating the retreat ceremony at Attari-Wagah border on Wednesday. PTI Photo by Deepak Sharma (PTI11_21_2012_000237B)

Indian paramilitary troops who perform the spectacular ‘lowering of the flags’ parade at the Indo-Pak border at Wagah near Amritsar can do so with an extra spring to their step -- courtesy special shoes that help cushion the aggressive stamping of feet.

The troops had complained of severe back and knee problems while performing the mock aggressive routine during the border closing ceremony every evening before sunset.

Border Security Force Deputy Inspector General M F Farooqui said, “Soldiers stamp their feet hard during the parade which has led to severe knee and backache problem. We were contemplating a non-asphalt surfact for the parade to lessen the impact, but they are now being provided with more comfortable shoes.”

The border policemen who were recently provided the new shoes, have given a positive feedback.

“The well cushioned shoes have been specially modified for these soldiers and they appear to be satisfied with them for there haven't been any more complaints,” Farooqui said.

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