**India Enhances Infrastructure Near LAC to Boost Military Mobility**
India is actively developing infrastructure near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to enhance military mobility and operational readiness. A significant road has been constructed in Bhutan, close to Doklam, the site of a tense standoff between India and China in 2017. This new road connects to the Haa Valley in Bhutan, located approximately 21 kilometers from Doklam. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) undertook the project at a cost of around Rs 254 crore, and it was inaugurated by Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tobgay Tshering on Friday. This infrastructure will not only benefit local residents in Bhutan but also facilitate the movement of security forces if necessary.
The road leads towards the Chumbi Valley in the Tibet Autonomous Region, where Chinese troops are stationed. It will enable the Bhutanese Army to access the border near Chumbi Valley and assist in the transportation of supplies. While the immediate use of the road will be for Bhutan, India stands to gain strategically should the need arise in the future.
India is reinforcing its partnership with Bhutan, particularly given Bhutan’s proximity to the India-China border and the challenges posed by China. This collaboration is viewed as crucial for regional stability.
In the 2017 Doklam standoff, China attempted to construct a road to Jamferi Ridge, which was halted by the Indian Army through Operation Juniper. Indian forces intervened, leading to a 72-day standoff that concluded with the withdrawal of Chinese troops. Following this incident, China has since developed infrastructure and established helipads in the Doklam area, which is strategically located at the convergence of Sikkim, Bhutan, and Tibet.
As part of Project Dantak, the Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi recently visited Bhutan to review the Haa Valley road project. The road features five bridges and is designed for all-weather accessibility. Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, Director General of BRO, is currently in Bhutan to assess the project and has met with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Prime Minister Tobgay, who commended BRO’s contributions to Bhutan’s development.
The upgraded Confluence–Haa Road, costing Rs 254 crore, aims to enhance transportation, tourism, and logistics in the region. The BRO has been engaged in developmental work in Bhutan since the 1960s, with efforts intensifying following the Doklam standoff.
**FAQ**
**What is the significance of the new road in Bhutan?**
The new road enhances military mobility for both Bhutan and India, improves local transportation, and strengthens Bhutan’s defense capabilities near the sensitive India-China border.
