China Finishes 400-Meter Bridge Near Pangong Lake Amidst Escalating India-China Tensions

New Delhi: China has finalized the construction of a 400-meter bridge near Pangong Lake, a region it has controlled since 1958. Recent satellite images from July 22 reveal that the bridge is now operational, with light vehicles already using it. This new infrastructure, positioned close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China in Ladakh, enhances the mobility of Chinese forces between the North and South banks of Pangong Lake.

Previously, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) had to traverse the entire eastern portion of the lake to access conflict zones, significantly prolonging travel time. The newly completed bridge offers a more direct and shorter route, potentially cutting the travel distance between the lake’s banks by 50-100 kilometers, thus improving rapid deployment capabilities.

In reaction to this development, India’s External Affairs Ministry has reiterated its position, asserting that the bridge is constructed in a territory India regards as illegally occupied by China for about 60 years. India does not recognize this occupation. Satellite images also show that the bridge is connected to an existing road network on the North bank, leading to Khurnak Fort, an ancient Tibetan fortification. On the South bank, it links to a new road that connects to Rutog, a key Chinese military and munitions town.

This infrastructure development follows violent clashes along the LAC that began in May 2020, including the deadly Galwan Valley skirmish. In response, India has accelerated its infrastructure projects in Ladakh, investing heavily in constructing tunnels and other critical infrastructure to bolster its defenses and connectivity in the region.