1. Satellite images show China constructing a road in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir’s Shaksgam Valley.
2. The road, branching from Highway G219 in China’s Xinjiang, vanishes into the mountains near Siachen Glacier.
3. It is situated around 50 km north of India’s northernmost point, Indira Col, in the Siachen Glacier region.
Srinagar, April 26: Satellite images reveal China’s construction of a road in the Shaksgam Valley of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, near the Siachen Glacier.
Road Construction Details
The road, located close to the Siachen Glacier, extends from an extension of Highway G219 in China’s Xinjiang, disappearing into the mountains approximately 50 km north of India’s northernmost point, Indira Col in Siachen Glacier.
Illegality and Diplomatic Concerns
Indian authorities and defence experts raise concerns about the road’s legality and potential security implications. Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma asserts that the road is illegal, urging India to diplomatically protest against China’s actions.
Geostrategic Significance
The Shaksgam Valley, part of the Trans-Karakoram Tract, remains historically disputed between India, Pakistan, and China. India views any change in the region’s status quo as a threat to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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Mineral Transportation Speculations
Speculations suggest that China’s road construction may facilitate the transportation of minerals, particularly Uranium, from Gilgit Baltistan to Xinjiang. However, concerns persist regarding potential military use of these roads by Pakistan and China.
Thread:
In a significant development, 🇨🇳 road has breached the border at Aghil Pass (4805 m) and entered the lower Shaksgam valley of Kashmir, 🇮🇳 with the road-head now less than 30 miles from 🇮🇳 Siachen
This permanently answers the question of Shaksgam for 🇮🇳
1/4 pic.twitter.com/TyjMcUqz2S
— Nature Desai (@NatureDesai) April 21, 2024
Historical and Political Context
Border Disputes and Claims
Aghil Pass, historically recognized as a frontier of Kashmir with Tibet, is central to India’s territorial claims in the region. Official maps and parliamentary assertions reinforce India’s commitment to reclaiming areas of Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir.
Bilateral Agreements and Unresolved Issues
The 1963 Boundary Agreement between China and Pakistan grants China temporary control over the area, subject to resolution of the Kashmir dispute. Despite India’s engagement with Pakistan on the Line of Control, no formal agreement exists with China regarding the Shaksgam Valley.
Indian Responses and Protests
Diplomatic and Military Protests
India has consistently protested against China’s activities in the region, including the construction of a metalled road in lower Shaksgam Valley and military infrastructure presence. Diplomatic protests and objections to Chinese territorial claims continue, reflecting India’s stance on sovereignty issues.
Recent Developments and Assertive Diplomacy
India’s strong stance against Chinese territorial encroachments is evident in recent diplomatic protests and engagements.
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar’s objections to the China-Pakistan economic corridor underscore India’s vigilance in safeguarding its territorial integrity.
In conclusion, China’s construction activities in the Shaksgam Valley raise significant geostrategic concerns for India.
As tensions persist over territorial disputes, diplomatic and military engagements remain crucial in safeguarding India’s national interests and sovereignty in the region.
