Afghanistan builds 121 km long road to China, why India must be concerned?

New Delhi: The construction of a road link to China via the Wakhan Corridor in Afghanistan's northeastern Badakhshan province has increased the strategic importance of the entire region. This approximately 121-kilometer-long road reaches China's Xinjiang region. Built at a cost of approximately $5.5 million, this road is considered a vital link in increasing direct land connectivity between Afghanistan and China.

The Wakhan Corridor is a narrow strip of land in northeastern Afghanistan, bordered by Tajikistan to the north, China's Xinjiang to the east, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir to the south. Due to its geographical location, this area is considered extremely sensitive.

Wakhan also has a long history. The region was once part of the ancient Silk Route, which facilitated trade between China, Central Asia, and South Asia. Even today, its geographical location makes it crucial for regional connectivity.

What will change with the road to China?

The Taliban government is trying to use this road to transport Afghanistan's gold and other natural resources to the Chinese market. This could help Afghanistan reduce its dependence on other countries and foreign companies.

For China, this road is not just a trade route. It could provide China with easier access to Afghanistan's mineral resources and strengthen connectivity from Xinjiang to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Why worry about India?

The biggest question for India is the geographical location of this road and China's growing presence. The Wakhan Corridor is close to Gilgit-Baltistan and Ladakh, which are claimed by India. Therefore, China's increased infrastructure and connectivity in this area is strategically important for India. India already faces challenges on the border with China in Ladakh. Therefore, increased Chinese activities in the Wakhan corridor further increases the importance of surveillance and strategic preparedness on the northern border.

Wakhan is also important for Pakistan

The Wakhan Corridor has also become important amid tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. China's presence and Afghanistan's growing connectivity with China could change the dynamics of the entire region. This is why India is closely monitoring developments in the Wakhan Corridor. The issue of ongoing Wakhan activities also came up during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's talks with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.

The way forward for India

China's growing activity in the Wakhan should not be seen simply as a road project. It is a major development related to China-Afghanistan connectivity, Central Asia, and regional security. It will be essential for India to strengthen its engagement with Afghanistan and deepen diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties with Central Asian countries. This 121-kilometer road may be short in length, but it holds significant strategic importance for China, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.