Within a month of completing a bridge on Pangong Tso, the Chinese side is building a second bridge, which is bigger, probably for quick induction of its armoured vehicles. The new bridge connects the north bank of Pangong Tso to its south bank. Observers believe that the first bridge was used as a service bridge to build the new bridge.
Security officials claimed that "it (the new one) is much bigger and broader.” “While the first bridge was to induct troops and others quickly, the new bridge is for the faster deployment of armoured vehicles like tanks, if the need arises," they said.
The government has not officially confirmed the construction of the new bridge, but satellite images showed the under-developed bridge, which is parallel to the first bridge.
Despite disengagement at last year's military commanders' meeting (9th meeting in the series), the Chinese military continues to develop infrastructure in and around the Pangong Tso.
The first bridge was about 400 metres long and 8 metres wide, and close to the friction points on the north bank of the Pangong Tso, and the Chushul sub-sector on the south bank. It is for the swifter mobility of troops.
In January, when the satellite images confirmed a bridge was being built, India reacted sharply. MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said: "India has been monitoring this activity closely. This bridge is being constructed in areas that have been under illegal occupation by China for around 60 years. Government taking steps to ensure our security interests are protected.” He added that the Indian government is taking all necessary steps to ensure security interests are fully protected.
"As part of these efforts, the government has also, in the last seven years, increased significantly the budget for the development of border infrastructure and completed more roads and bridges than ever before," he said.
Last week, Army chief General Manoj Pande said that the basic issue with China remained the resolution of the boundary issue, but the intent “has been to keep it alive”. "We want to restore trust and tranquillity, but it cannot be a one-way affair. Both sides need to do it,” General Pande had said while adding that “the basic issue remains resolution of the border. What we see is that China has intended to keep the boundary issue alive.”
Konchok Stazin, who represents Chushul in Ladakh Hill Development Council reacted sharply to the latest development. "China building a second bridge over Pangong Lake. It is a huge psychological threat and a big concern for the nation's security. Unlimited building infrastructure by China on the border is a serious concern. Is it a matter of concern? Konchok Stanzin tweeted.
