India: The Ministry Of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday said it was monitoring the situation in eastern Ladakh after reports claimed that China was constructing a second bridge around the strategically key Pangong Tso lake.
The new bridge is being built in an area. Which is 20 km from the Line of Actual Control (LAC)
“We have seen reports on this bridge or a second bridge. We are monitoring the situation. Probably area that is referred to. We felt it is occupied. Talks are on with the Chinese side”. Said MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi at the weekly media briefing.
According to sources, the second bridge being built on the Chinese side of the Pangong Tso lake will be used to move heavy combat vehicles such as tanks and armoured vehicles extremely close to the Indian border.
On Twitter, Damien Symon, an analyst who follows Chinese activity along the Line of Actual Control, shared satellite photographs of the bridge.
Symon’s satellite image reveals that the bridge is being built simultaneously on both ends. The bridge will drastically shorten the distance between the depths of Rudok and the Pangong Tso region near the LAC.
India in series of talks
Since the standoff began in May 2020, the two sides have undertaken a series of conversations at various levels. Lest, which are political, diplomatic, and military. Also, as a part of the agreements made, disengaged from both sides of Pangong Tso in February 2021. As well as Patrolling Point 17 in the Gogra area in August.
Hot Springs, Demchok, and Depsang are the other places that need to be settled. According to officials, India has demanded a complete disengagement and de-escalation of the situation in eastern Ladakh, while China has been hesitant to discuss Depsang and Demchok. Hence, claiming they are not part of the current standoff.
