Recent reports have suggested that the Chinese have built three villages in Arunachal Pradesh, approximately 5 kilometres from Bum La pass, marking an escalation in border tensions between India and China. The Bum La pass is one of four officially agreed-upon Border Personnel Meeting points between the Indian Army and the People’s Liberation Army of China. In addition, in 2020, work began on a strategically significant railway line linking Sichuan province with Nyingchi in Tibet, adding to concerns as this area lies close to the Arunachal Pradesh border.
New Village Construction: A Tactical Move?
Satellite images from November 2020 reveal a full-fledged village constructed on the River Tsari Chu’s banks in Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Subansiri district. Located a few kilometres across the contentious Line of Actual Control (LAC), this area has seen permanent military barracks built by China. Having been under Chinese control since 1959, this location is at least 2 kilometres south of the McMahon Line, which India recognises, but China refuses to acknowledge.
Arunachal Pradesh: A Point of Contention
India and China’s differing views on the Line of Actual Control’s alignment have resulted in almost two dozen areas of disagreement along its length. These disagreements span the entirety of the LAC, including the eastern sector covering Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, the middle sector in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, and the western sector in Ladakh. Specifically, in Arunachal Pradesh, India’s claim line deviates from the LAC, leading to further conflict. India considers this state as an integral part of the country, while China perceives it as South Tibet.
China’s Increasing Fighting Footprint
Analysts interpret the recent Chinese village construction as an effort to strengthen China’s claim to the contested area. This move corresponds with China’s ongoing push to establish civilian settlements in disputed frontier regions, similar to its activities along the Bhutan border. Such settlements could enhance military personnel and material transport efficiency and improve logistical supply lines.
Risks and Repercussions for India
This village’s strategic location might provide China with an advantageous position during standoffs near Arunachal Pradesh, such as those witnessed at Doklam and Ladakh in recent years. In response, India has allocated 10% of the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) funds to border infrastructure enhancement along the China border.
India’s Countermeasures: Bolstering Border Infrastructure
To counter China’s strategic advances, the Indian government has taken steps to bolster border infrastructure. Developments include the rapid construction of Daporijo bridge over Subansiri river in Arunachal Pradesh, the laying of a foundation for a tunnel at Nechiphu aimed at shortening travel time for troops, and the inauguration of the Sisseri River Bridge, among other projects. Further, the government of Arunachal Pradesh has proposed developing infrastructure in 10 border towns to deter migration to urban centres.
Militarisation Efforts and Exercises
Military readiness has also been on India’s agenda. In 2019, the Indian Air Force inaugurated the resurfaced runway at Vijaynagar, India’s easternmost village. The Indian Army conducted an exercise named ‘HimVijay’ in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam utilising its Integrated Battle Groups. The Bogibeel bridge, India’s longest road-rail bridge, inaugurated in 2018, will expedite troop and equipment movement to areas bordering China.
Looking Forward: The Need for Vigilance and Infrastructure Development
India must remain vigilant to any new development near its border with China and protect its interests by developing robust infrastructure in contentious border areas. This approach would ensure the efficient movement of personnel and other logistical supplies, effectively countering any unexpected threats.
