What is the Importance of the Siachen Glacier?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: November 9th, 2023
Siachen Glacier is strategically important to India, Pakistan, and China since it serves as a hub for the Shaksgam Valley, Karakoram Pass, and Aksai Chin. As a result, keeping Siachen is critical for India in order to prevent incursion from Pakistan and China. The Line of Control between India and Pakistan ends at point NJ9842, which is located south-southwest of the Siachen Glacier.
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Siachen Glacier
One of the longest mountain glaciers in the world, the Siachen glacier is located close to the Pakistani-Indian border in Kashmir’s Karakoram Range system. It is the source of the Shyok, an Indus River tributary, and the Nubra River.
The armies of India and Pakistan are fighting on the world’s highest battlefield (around 24,000 feet). Life on the Siachen glacier, which covers an area of 76 km, is difficult due to subzero temperatures that can plunge to -60 degrees, constant avalanche hazard, glacial crevasses, strong winds, and a range of potentially fatal altitude-related ailments.
Importance of Siachen Glacier
- The Siachen glacier, which separates central Asia from the Indian subcontinent, divides Pakistan and China in the region.
- The Siachin glacier’s Saltoro Ridge, which acts as a barrier between Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and China, prevents the two countries from forging direct military relations in the region.
- Siachen also serves as a watchtower, allowing India to maintain a close eye on Pakistan’s Gilgit and Baltistan areas.
- Aside from Chinese worries about Aksai Chin in the east, Pakistan would represent a substantial threat to India from the west in Ladakh if it gained a geographical advantage in Siachen.
- Because of its control over Saltoro Ride, India is better positioned to make an arrangement with Pakistan in the future for settling bilateral territorial concerns.
Summary:
What is the Importance of the Siachen Glacier?
Siachen Glacier is important to India, Pakistan, and China as it is the center of Shaksgam Valley, Aksai Chin, and Karakoram Pass. India must keep Siachen to prevent infiltration from Pakistan and China. At point NJ9842, the LOC between Pakistan and India ends, and this location is south-southwest of Siachen Glacier.
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