China helps Pakistan to build bunkers along Rajasthan border
After its machinations failed to work in Kashmir, Pakistan is now trying to make things difficult for India on the western front. South Asia's "enfant terrible" is getting help from its "all-weather friend" China. Intelligence agencies have obtained photographs taken in Pakistan. They show huge construction activities near the Rajasthan border. The BSF has taken note of this and flagged it to higher authorities.
So, how is China helping Pakistan?
How exactly is China helping Pakistan? The two countries have allied to build an airbase at Khairpur, about 25kms from Jaisalmer. Fighter planes like Shaanxi Y-8, CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder and Chengdu J-7 among others have been landing there. The presence of Chinese troops has also increased. Other airstrips are being built at Tharparkar, about 25kms from Barmer, and Mithi, along Gujarat's border.
Not only air-bases, China goes the extra mile for Pakistan
Apart from air-bases, China has helped Pakistan in building about 100 bunkers. About 200 dugouts have also been prepared at strategic locations. With Chinese help, Pakistan has acquired a modern convoy jamming system from Switzerland. Also, a Hong Kong-based company has reportedly supplied winter clothes, especially special hand gloves, and other equipment. This raises the question: What is the reason for China's benevolence?
But, why is China bestowing such favors on Pakistan?
The Chinese apparently are interested in Pakistan's oil and gas reserves in Sindh province. Allegedly, about 10,000 Chinese workers from 30 companies are working towards setting up an oil refinery. Another purported justification for increased Chinese presence on Pakistan soil is related to threats to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
What is Pakistan's justification for these air-strips?
Pakistan security forces have not conveyed information about these construction activities at India-Pakistan's regular flag meetings. They claim that this infrastructure is meant to simplify transport of oil and natural gas by the Chinese. Transportation through Karachi is apparently inconvenient due to distance and congestion.
Why should India be vigilant?
Should India worry? Seeing Pakistan's character, despite global pressure, it can go to any length to fester trouble in India. Last year, 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed was also seen along the border. Is Pakistan using the Rajasthan border to facilitate infiltration of terrorists? Are they diverting attention from Kashmir? Considering these issues, the armed forces will be vigilant about these new developments.
