Which one of the following major infrastructure projects is linked to ...
India has lodged a strong protest with China for carrying out construction activities in the Shaksgam valley, in an “illegal” attempt to alter the situation on the ground.
About Shaksgam Valley:
- The Shaksgam Valley, or Trans Karakoram Tract, is part of the Hunza-Gilgit region of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) and is a disputed territory claimed by India but controlled by Pakistan.
- It borders Xinjiang Province of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to the north, the Northern Areas of POK to the south and west, and the Siachen Glacier region to the east.
- It was ceded to China by Pakistan in 1963, when both countries signed a boundary agreement to settle their border differences.
- However, Article 6 of the agreement clearly stated that “the two parties have agreed that after the settlement of the Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India, the sovereign authority concerned will reopen negotiations with the Government of the People's Republic of China, on the boundary as described in Article Two of the present agreement, so as to sign a formal Boundary Treaty to replace the present agreement.”
- The agreement laid the foundation of Karakoram highway, which was built jointly by Chinese and Pakistani engineers in the 1970s.
Hence option c is the correct answer.
Which one of the following major infrastructure projects is linked to ...
Shaksgam Valley and Karakoram Highway
The Shaksgam Valley is linked to the Karakoram Highway. Here's a detailed explanation:
Shaksgam Valley
The Shaksgam Valley is a region located in northern Pakistan, near the border with China. It is a strategically important area due to its proximity to the Karakoram Range and the Siachen Glacier.
Karakoram Highway
The Karakoram Highway is a major infrastructure project that connects Pakistan and China. It runs through the Karakoram mountain range, passing through the Shaksgam Valley. The construction of the Karakoram Highway was a significant collaboration between China and Pakistan, aimed at enhancing trade and connectivity between the two countries.
Significance
The link between the Shaksgam Valley and the Karakoram Highway is crucial for the economic and strategic interests of both Pakistan and China. The highway provides a vital trade route between the two countries, facilitating the movement of goods and people across the region.
Impact on Regional Connectivity
The Karakoram Highway also plays a key role in regional connectivity, linking China with Pakistan and providing access to other countries in the region. It is an integral part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project under China's Belt and Road Initiative.
In conclusion, the Shaksgam Valley is linked to the Karakoram Highway, which serves as a crucial infrastructure project that enhances trade, connectivity, and regional cooperation between Pakistan and China.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.