A recent report reveals that China has constructed 22 villages within Bhutan’s traditional borders, including 19 villages and three settlements. This development is seen as part of China’s strategic push in the Doklam area, raising concerns for India and Bhutan.

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• China built 22 villages in Bhutan, including 19 villages, 3 small settlements.
• Seven villages have emerged since early 2023, indicating rapid construction.
• Some villages built on high-altitude areas, up to 4,670 meters above sea level.
• Villages linked by roads to Chinese towns, isolated from Bhutanese cities.
• About 7,000 people relocated, including officials, military, and workers.
• China’s expansion threatens Bhutan’s sovereignty, limited military strength.
• China seeks control of the Doklam plateau for a strategic edge over India.
• Doklam’s southern ridge overlooks India’s Siliguri Corridor, a vulnerable area.
• Bhutan-China border dispute remains unresolved since the 1980s.
• India intervened in Doklam in 2017 to stop China’s construction, but tensions persist.