'China's Road Construction Raises Security Concerns for India
Satellite imagery reveals that China is constructing a road in a part of Indian territory that is illegally occupied by Pakistan, close to the strategically significant Siachen Glacier. The road branches out from an extension of Highway G219 in China's Xinjiang region and stretches into the mountains, approximately 50 kilometers north of India's northernmost point in the Siachen Glacier.
Strategic Significance
The road is situated in the Trans-Karakoram Tract, a region historically part of Kashmir that is claimed by India. The latest official map published by India continues to depict this region as Indian territory. The tract was captured by Pakistan in 1947 and ceded to China in 1963, a boundary agreement not recognized by India.
Indian defense experts view any change in the status quo in this area as a violation of India's sovereignty. Concerns have also been raised about the potential threats posed by increased infrastructure projects in this mountainous region.
Reports indicate growing military cooperation between Pakistan and China in the area. In 2021, Pakistan announced plans for a new road connecting Muzaffarabad to Mustagh Pass, which borders the Shaksgam Valley. This road is believed to be linked to the Chinese national highway G219, potentially providing a direct connection to the Shaksgam Valley.
Legitimacy and History
According to Article 6 of the 1963 Boundary Agreement between China and Pakistan, China's control over the Trans-Karakoram Tract is temporary, pending the resolution of the Kashmir dispute. India has not reached any such agreement with China concerning the Shaksgam Valley.
Historically, Aghil Pass, where the road enters the contested region, has served as a border between Kashmir and Tibet. Official maps from both Indian and Chinese sources have previously shown this area as part of India.
Indian Stance and Protests
India has consistently reiterated its commitment to reclaim all areas of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir, including the Shaksgam Valley. In 2019, Home Minister Amit Shah declared that both the valley and Aksai Chin are part of India.
India has lodged diplomatic protests with China over its infrastructure projects in the lower Shaksgam Valley and the display of Aksai Chin as Chinese territory. India also protested the planned China-Pakistan economic corridor that includes investments in the Shaksgam Valley.
In conclusion, China's road construction in the Shaksgam Valley raises security concerns for India due to its strategic location and potential implications for the status quo in the disputed Kashmir region. India continues to oppose these projects and maintains its claim to the entire territory of Jammu and Kashmir.'
