Chinese Railway Project in Aksai Chin Accelerates India’s Infrastructure Development
Aksai Chin, NEW DELHI – China’s ambitious endeavor to construct a railway alongside the existing road in the Aksai Chin region has prompted India to expedite its own infrastructure initiatives. The imminent completion of the Shingun Pass Tunnel, which seamlessly connects the Himachal-Ladakh regions regardless of weather conditions, is a testament to India’s determination. Spanning an astonishing 15,855 feet, this marvel will become the world’s highest tunnel upon completion.
Rapid Infrastructure Projects Galore
National Defense Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled an impressive portfolio of 90 infrastructure projects just two days ago. These projects encompass a wide array of developments, including roads, bridges, and mini tunnels. Notably, the Nechiphu tunnel in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh will be part of this transformative endeavor. More significantly, the majority of these essential undertakings are strategically situated along the Chinese border. Specifically, 26 projects will fortify Ladakh, while an additional 36 projects will be stationed in Arunachal Pradesh.
A Historical Perspective
China had already constructed a road through Aksai Chin even before the 1962 war. The newly planned railway essentially runs parallel to this preexisting artery. The anticipated completion date for the initial phase of the road is set for 2025. Subsequently, China will possess the ability to rapidly deploy troops, artillery, tanks, and other military assets in significant quantities, further highlighting its strategic advantage. Presently, Tibet boasts a railway line extending up to Shigatse, with ongoing efforts to extend it westward into Hotan, located in China’s Xinjiang province, via Nepal’s border.
Ground Infrastructure: India’s Response to the Chinese Challenge
Thus far, India has relied on its air power as a deterrent to the Chinese threat. However, due to most Indian air force bases being stationed in the plains, planes can only carry full weapon payloads during takeoff. At high-altitude bases, the limited carrying capacity reduces their operational effectiveness. On the other hand, owing to the openness of the surrounding terrain, any military movements by China in Tibet are promptly detected by the Indian Air Force, allowing for proactive countermeasures. In light of recent events in Galvan, India has consequently directed its attention towards bolstering ground infrastructure to effectively address emerging challenges.
NEW DELHI: China’s move to build a railway in addition to the existing road in the Aksai Chin region has accelerated infrastructure construction on the Indian side. The Shingun Pass Tunnel, which will connect Himachal-Ladakh regions in all weather conditions, will be completed soon. This is the highest tunnel in the world (15,855 feet). 90 infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges and mini tunnels, were presented to the nation by National Defense Minister Rajnath Singh 2 days ago. It will also include Nechiphu tunnel in Tawang district of Arunachal. Most of the projects are located on the border of China. 26 in Ladakh and 36 in Arunachal.
China had built a road through Aksai Chin even before the war of 1962. The railway is almost parallel to it. The first phase of the road is expected to be completed in 2025. With the completion of the railway, China will be able to bring troops, artillery, tanks etc. to the border in large numbers, China expert Colonel VS Verma said. There is currently a railway to Shigatse in Tibet. Efforts are being made to extend it westwards across the Nepalese border to Hotan in China’s Xinjiang province.
So far, India’s air power has been a consolation against the Chinese threat. Since the Indian air force bases are mostly in the plains, the planes will take off with full weapons. Takeoff from high altitude bases will have less payload. Moreover, since it is a generally open area, any military movement by China in Tibet would be known to the Indian Air Force and countermeasures could be taken. After the Galvan problems, India started focusing on ground infrastructure.
English summary: Chinese railway at Aksai Chin: India makes preparations
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