China Completes Strategic 400-Meter Bridge Near Pangong Lake Amidst Rising Tensions with India

New Delhi: China has completed the construction of a 400-meter bridge near Pangong Lake, situated in territory it has controlled since 1958. Recent satellite imagery from July 22 shows the bridge is now operational, with light motor vehicles using it. This strategic infrastructure, located close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China in Ladakh, enables quicker movement of Chinese troops between the North and South banks of Pangong Lake.

Previously, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) had to navigate the entire eastern section of the lake to reach conflict zones, a process that extended travel time significantly. The new bridge provides a direct and shorter route, potentially reducing travel distance between the lake’s banks by 50-100 kilometers and enhancing rapid deployment capabilities.

In response, India’s External Affairs Ministry reiterated its stance on the area, stating that the bridge is being constructed in a region under what India considers illegal occupation by China for approximately 60 years. India has not recognized this occupation. Satellite images also reveal that the bridge is linked to an existing road network on the North bank of Pangong Lake, which leads to Khurnak Fort, a historic Tibetan structure. On the South bank, the bridge connects to a new road leading to Rutog, a Chinese garrison town and munitions hub.

This development follows the violent clashes that occurred along the LAC starting in May 2020, including the deadly Galwan Valley incident. In response, India has accelerated its infrastructure development in Ladakh, including building tunnels for year-round access. The Indian government invested heavily in frontier infrastructure, with significant projects underway to bolster defenses and connectivity in the region.

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