China has successfully completed the construction of a 400-meter bridge linking the northern and southern banks of Pangong Tso, effectively cutting the travel distance between the two banks by a significant 50-100 kilometers, translating to several hours of reduced travel time. Recent images from July 22, 2024, captured by NDTV, show vehicles traversing the newly built, black-topped bridge across Pangong Tso. The bridge’s location is within Chinese-held territory, which has been under their control since 1958, situated close to the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh. Satellite images reveal the presence of four additional structures on the northern side of the lake.
Khurnak Fort, strategically positioned on the northern shore of Pangong Tso, has been under Chinese control since 1958. Historically, the boundary between India and China was considered to be at Khurnak Fort, but China has since taken control of the area. The recent construction at Khurnak does not represent an incursion into Indian-held territory, as reported by NDTV. Satellite imagery accessed by the media outlet also showcases a Chinese fortification, complete with two helipads, located at Khurnak Fort. During the 1962 India-China war, Khurnak Fort served as China’s forward headquarters for operations in Ladakh. Further satellite images reveal the existence of an artillery site and interconnected protective trenches that extend north to south. An open defensive position is visible, likely housing a Chinese surface-to-air missile launcher, along with an air defence site. A road runs parallel to Pangong Lake, facilitating the movement of troops and equipment.
When questioned about this latest development, India’s External Affairs Ministry stated, “This bridge is being constructed in areas that have been under illegal occupation by China for around 60 years now. As you are well aware India has never accepted such illegal occupation,” as quoted by NDTV. Since May 2020, Indian and Chinese troops have engaged in violent skirmishes along the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh. In the Galwan Valley, north of Pangong Lake, 20 Indian soldiers were killed, while China claimed four of its soldiers were killed, although reports suggest the true number was closer to 40. Violent clashes also occurred on the northern bank of Pangong Lake. In an attempt to de-escalate tensions, India and China have agreed to establish a demilitarised zone, prompting China to dismantle several structures between “Finger 4” and “Finger 8”, which are geographical markers on the northern bank of Pangong Lake.
Following the clashes with China, India has intensified its infrastructure development efforts in Ladakh, including the construction of tunnels to provide year-round access to the region. In 2021 alone, 87 bridges were built in Ladakh. In 2022, the Indian government allocated over Rs 2,000 crore for infrastructure projects along the China-India border, with 18 major initiatives specifically planned for Ladakh. With inputs from agencies, this new bridge construction is viewed as a strategic move by China, reflecting their continued military presence in the region and the ongoing territorial tensions between India and China.
