The recent news has highlighted China’s intention to set up a Kohala hydropower project in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This action is part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a key initiative under China’s One Belt One Road (OBOR) strategy. India, however, has objected to the construction of the hydropower project.
About the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a significant component of China’s OBOR initiative, aiming to enhance infrastructure within Pakistan for improved trade relations with China, and to further integrate regional countries. The OBOR strategy comprises two primary elements – the land-based ‘One Belt’, and the ocean-going ‘Maritime Silk Road’. The purpose of this comprehensive strategy is to connect East Asia’s economic region with Europe’s economic circle. It runs across the continents of Asia, Europe, and Africa.
India has chosen to boycott the Belt and Road Forum organized by China, representing its disapproval of China’s establishment of the CPEC project through PoK. India views this as a deliberate disregard by China for its territorial claims.
The Kohala Hydropower Project
The Kohala hydropower project is planned to be built on the Jhelum River. It is projected to be a 1,124-megawatt power project designed to provide over five billion units of clean, low-cost electricity annually for consumers in Pakistan.
India’s Standpoint
India has voiced strong opposition to China’s move, asserting that the entirety of the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral and undeniable parts of India. Previously, India also protested against the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha dam in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of PoK.
Historically, India has resisted projects jointly undertaken by Pakistan and China in PoK as part of the CPEC initiative. The Indian government has consistently communicated its protests and shared concerns with both China and Pakistan regarding all such projects in the Indian territories currently under Pakistan’s illegal occupation.
Historical Context
India’s consistent opposition to such projects is grounded in historical and territorial disputes, particularly in relation to the region of PoK. Efforts taken by China and Pakistan within this contested region have been viewed as dismissive of India’s territorial claims and rights, hence leading to ongoing tension amongst these nations.
As discussions and decisions regarding such collaborations continue, the global community watches closely to understand the unfolding dynamics of regional integration, economic cooperation, and territorial conflict within this part of Asia.
