China has finalized the construction of a 400-meter bridge over Pangong Tso, connecting its northern and southern banks. High-resolution satellite images, first revealed by NDTV in January 2022, have been updated as of July 22, 2024, showing vehicles traversing the newly completed bridge. This bridge, located in territory held by China since 1958, significantly reduces the travel distance between the two banks by 50-100 kilometers.
The satellite imagery also reveals extensive military fortifications near the bridge. Four new structures have been identified on the northern side of the lake, where the Chinese have reinforced their position. Key installations include the Khurnak Fort, an area under Chinese control since 1958, which has historically been used as a forward base during the 1962 India-China war.
The images depict Chinese fortifications at Khurnak Fort, including two newly constructed helipads. Additionally, an artillery site, interconnected protected trenches, and an open defensive position, possibly housing a surface-to-air missile launcher, have been identified. A parallel road along Pangong Lake facilitates the movement of troops and equipment.
In response to these developments, the External Affairs Ministry reiterated its stance on the bridge: “This bridge is being constructed in areas that have been under illegal occupation by China for around 60 years. India has never accepted such illegal occupation.”
The bridge’s completion comes in the wake of violent skirmishes between Indian and Chinese soldiers along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, beginning in May 2020. These clashes, including the deadly confrontation in Galwan Valley where 20 Indian soldiers were killed, have heightened tensions between the two nations. Despite recent agreements to de-escalate and create a demilitarized zone, China’s increased fortifications and infrastructure developments continue to strain relations.
The strategic significance of the bridge and the accompanying military build-up underscore ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, with both nations closely monitoring developments along the LAC.
