China constructs villages near Doklam in Bhutan, reveals satellite data

China has built at least 22 villages and settlements within Bhutanese territory over the past eight years, according to satellite data. Of these, eight villages have been constructed near the strategic Doklam plateau since 2020. These villages are strategically located in valleys or on ridges overlooking areas that China claims, with several near Chinese military bases.

The largest of the detected villages, Jiwu, was built on traditional Bhutanese pastureland called Tshethangkha, located in Bhutan’s western sector. This construction is concerning to experts in New Delhi, as China’s growing presence in the area could threaten the Siliguri Corridor, a vital land link connecting India’s mainland to its northeastern states.

Doklam is significant for its history, having been the site of a 73-day standoff between Indian and Chinese troops in 2017. India intervened to prevent China from constructing a road that would have given it easier access to the southern part of the plateau. While both sides withdrew their forces after the standoff, satellite images indicate continued Chinese construction activity around Doklam.

The building of these villages has raised concerns in India about the potential for China to increase its strategic leverage in the region. However, there has been no official response from India’s external affairs ministry regarding the latest developments.