China’s Strategic Road Construction Near Siachen: In a recent development that could have significant security implications for India, China has initiated the construction of a road in a part of Kashmir that is illegally occupied. This region is in close proximity to the Siachen Glacier, known as the world’s highest battlefield.
The Road and Its Location
The road is being constructed in the Shaksgam Valley, a region under the administration of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK), which was ceded to China in 1963. The road branches out from Highway G219 in China’s Xinjiang and extends close to the Siachen Glacier. Satellite images reveal that the basic trail of the road was laid between June and August last year.
Implications for India
This construction has drawn criticism from Indian defense experts. Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma, former commander of the Indian Army’s Fire and Fury Corps, labeled it as “totally illegal” and suggested that India must register its diplomatic protest with the Chinese. The road’s location in the Trans-Karakoram Tract, historically part of Kashmir and claimed by India, poses concerns regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Broader Context
The construction of the road is seen in the context of broader military cooperation in the area. Reports suggest Pakistan’s plans for a road connecting Muzaffarabad to Mustagh Pass, potentially linked to China’s national highway G219, could pass through the Shaksgam Valley. While some speculate the purpose of these roads could be for mineral transportation, including uranium allegedly mined from Gilgit Baltistan to Xinjiang, concerns linger regarding potential military maneuvers facilitated by these infrastructures.
India’s Stand
India maintains that the Kashmir dispute must be resolved for a formal boundary treaty to be established. The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to reclaim all areas of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including the Shaksgam Valley. Home Minister Amit Shah, in a parliamentary address, emphasized India’s stance, affirming that PoK and Aksai Chin are integral parts of Jammu & Kashmir.
Conclusion
In recent years, India has protested against various Chinese initiatives, including the construction of roads and claims over territories like the Aksai Chin plateau. Diplomatic efforts have been intensified, with India lodging formal protests against China’s territorial infringements. The recent road construction near Siachen by China adds a new dimension to the ongoing territorial disputes between the two nations.
View More sources:
- Satellite images show China building road in occupied Kashmir near Siachen
- China builds new road in occupied Kashmir near Siachen, reveals satellite images
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