The creation of road connectivity with China through the Wakhan Corridor in Afghanistan’s north-eastern Badakhshan province has increased the strategic importance of the entire region. This 121 km long road reaches the Xinjiang region of China. This road, built at a cost of about 55 lakh dollars, is being considered as an important link to increase direct land connectivity between Afghanistan and China.

Indeed, the Wakhan Corridor is a narrow strip in the north-east of Afghanistan. It is bordered by Tajikistan to the north, China’s Xinjiang to the east and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir to the south. The area is considered highly sensitive due to its geographical position.

The history of praise is also very old. The region was once part of the ancient Silk Route, which traded between China, Central Asia and South Asia. Even today its geographical position makes it important in terms of regional connectivity.

What will change with China’s road?

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

At the same time, this route is not just a trade route for China. This will facilitate China’s 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 the growing presence of China. The Wakhan Corridor is close to Gilgit-Baltistan and Ladakh which is claimed by India. In such a situation, increasing China’s infrastructure and connectivity in the region is important from India’s strategic point of view. India is already facing challenges along the border with China in Ladakh. In such a situation, as China’s activities in Wakhan are increasing, the importance of surveillance and strategic preparedness on the northern border is increasing.

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 increasing connectivity with China could change the entire regional equation. This is the reason why India is also monitoring the activities taking place in Wakhan. In Jaishankar’s conversation with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaki, Foreign Minister S. The issue of ongoing activities in Wakhan also came up.

Forward strategy for India

China’s growing activity in Wakhan should not be seen as just a road project. This is a major development related to China-Afghanistan connectivity, Central Asia and regional security. It will be necessary for India to strengthen its contacts with Afghanistan and deepen diplomatic, economic and strategic ties with Central Asian countries. Overall, this route of 121 kilometers may be short in length, but its strategic importance for China, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India is huge.