Siliguri Corridor
The Siliguri Corridor, often termed the “Chicken’s Neck,” is important land link in India. It connects mainland India to its northeastern states. This narrow strip of land, measuring 20–22 km, is surrounded by Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. As regional dynamics shift, especially with China’s growing influence, the corridor has become vital for India’s national security and connectivity.
Geographical Significance
The Siliguri Corridor serves as a logistical lifeline. It connects India’s northeastern states, covering about 262,230 square kilometres with over 40 million residents. The corridor supports military movements and facilitates 95% of exports from states like Assam and Manipur. Disruption to this corridor could severely impact India’s national integrity.
Proximity to China
The corridor is alarmingly close to China’s Chumbi Valley. This proximity raises concerns about potential conflicts. In a conflict scenario, China could easily sever this connection. The 2017 Doklam standoff brought into light the need for India to strengthen its defences and explore alternative routes.
Chinese Influence in Neighbouring Countries
China’s strategic partnerships in the region are expanding. Investments in infrastructure in Myanmar and Bangladesh are reshaping the regional balance. These developments pose a challenge to India’s security, especially regarding the Siliguri Corridor.
The Lalmonirhat Airbase Threat
The proposed revival of the Lalmonirhat airbase in Bangladesh is particularly concerning. Located just 135 km from the Siliguri Corridor, it could serve as a surveillance hub for China. This development could enhance Chinese intelligence capabilities, posing threat to India.
Regional Diplomatic Tensions
Recent statements from Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma highlight the vulnerabilities of the corridor. His remarks tell the dual territorial challenges faced by both India and Bangladesh. The interim government in Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, appears to be aligning more closely with Chinese interests, complicating India’s efforts to secure its northeastern connectivity.
Alternative Connectivity Solutions
Given the risks, India must diversify its access to the Northeast. Relying solely on the Siliguri Corridor is no longer sufficient. Several alternative corridors are being explored:
- Hili–Mahendraganj Corridor: This proposed route connects West Bengal to Meghalaya through Bangladesh, offering a faster and more secure link.
- Tarapokhar–Shakati Corridor: This route reduces travel distance , bypassing the Siliguri stretch entirely.
- Subterranean Infrastructure: Developing underground tunnels within the Siliguri Corridor could enhance security and reduce exposure to threats.
- Kaladan Multimodal Transit Corridor: This project links Kolkata to Mizoram via Myanmar, providing a more direct route to the northeastern states.
A Strategic Imperative
The Siliguri Corridor is essential for India’s unity and regional stability. With increasing threats from China and vulnerabilities from neighbouring states, India must take decisive action. Developing alternative corridors and reinforcing existing infrastructure are crucial for national survival and strategic foresight.
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