Aarish U. Khan
Aarish U. Khan is a Research Analyst at the Institute of Regional Studies. His special interest areas include Indo-Pakistan relations, non-state actors, and religious movements.
DOI: http://DOI Number
Keywords: Avalanche, GB, NLI, Siachen, militaries, Pakistan, India, demilitarize, environment
Abstract
The Siachen Glacier was uninhabited until Indian and Pakistani troops arrived. Since 1986, negotiations have failed to resolve the problem. Both countries’ human and financial expenses are high. Most human losses were caused by topographical and climatic conditions rather than hostile fire. Keeping the two military at high altitude positions on the glacier or nearby is costly even if they are not trading fire. For future generations of the two countries, the conflict’s most lasting consequence is the devastation of the fragile glacier habitat. Since the conflict zone around Siachen was deserted until 1984, it must be demilitarised to be resolved. Almost all of these assessments assume that the two armies’ presence is militarily, economically, and environmentally dangerous and that the glacier has little strategic value. The two countries are conducting a pointless war in hostile terrain with high human, economic, and environmental costs. The 7 April tragedy is a wakeup call for India and Pakistan to demilitarise the region, but it’s also a time to review the costs of this conflict and other discourses for its settlement. Trauma-induced impulsive debate shortens imagination and understanding. In a 19 April statement, Pakistan’s Foreign Office was right to reiterate its stance on the matter, which might assist detraumatize and depoliticize the dialogue. This study also aims to rationalise the argument by examining Siachen-related concerns. Furthermore, it provides a roadmap for demilitarization.
First Published
June 25, 2012
How to Cite
Aarish U. Khan, “Siachen Glacier: Getting Past the Deadlock,” Regional Studies 30, no.3 (Summer 2012): 3-22, https://regionalstudies.com.pk/wp/article/siachen-glacier-getting-past-the-deadlock/
Issue
Volume 30, Issue 3