India Plans Roads, Railway to Counter China Influence

India says it plans to build new roads and railway lines to counteract the buildup of Chinese infrastructure along the two countries' disputed border.

According to a defense ministry report submitted to parliament, three proposed rail lines would connect the northeastern state of Assam with the neighboring state of Arunachal Pradesh, which China labels “South Tibet” and claims in its entirety.

Dozens of new roads would also be built along the border.

Indian defense officials said Friday that China has the advantage when it comes to building infrastructure along the border because of topography, particularly the Tibetan Plateau. Indian officials say the terrain on the Indian side of the border is much more difficult to navigate.

India has also expressed concerns about China's growing military presence in the border region, which has remained relatively peaceful in the last decade.(VOA News)