Indian security and intelligence agencies are seriously concerned over Pakistan allowing Chinese companies to take up oil drilling work on its soil along the Indian border.
According to intelligence sources, Pakistan has recently allowed Chinese companies to work in those areas of Pakistan which are close to the Indian border such as Jaisalmer, north of Barmer and Kutch-Sindh border, besides a few other areas. "Inputs confirm that Chinese companies have already started drilling work in certain areas of Pakistan which are close to India. These bordering areas in Pakistan include Bahawalpur, Rahimyar Khan in Punjab, Mirpur Khas, Umerkot in Sindh and Islamgarh", sources said. Intelligence officials say that the developments have forced them to believe that the New Delhi must undertake a review of its strategy to deal with Pakistan on this issue. Sources further said, "China is already involved in building an illegal railway station in the no-man's land along the Munabao-Khokhrapar train link in Pakistan. Now, Pakistani authorities have invited the Chinese companies to start oil drilling work in their areas which are close to international border. It's a matter of serious concern".
"China and Pakistan are also working on a plan to lay a trans-Himalayan pipeline to carry West Asian crude from Gwadar to China. The Chinese are also engaged in petroleum exploration in Balochistan. It may be recalled that the Bureau of Geophysical Prospecting was awarded a $1 million contract in 2001 to survey an area in Balochistan", sources said.