THIMPHU: China has built around 22 villages in the neighbouring areas of Bhutan to strengthen its border regions. This move has been made over the past eight years. The release of the satellite images of these villages has sparked significant concern in India. It is reported that China is constructing about eight villages near the strategically important Doklam plateau area of Bhutan.

The villages near Doklam are said to be close to Chinese military outposts, as observed by analysts. The largest of these 22 villages is called Jiwu, located in Bhutan's western region known as Tshethangkha. This has raised concerns in India. The move is seen as an effort by China to strengthen its presence in strategically important areas near India. The proximity of these Chinese villages to the Siliguri Corridor, a vital artery connecting India's mainland to its northeastern states, has sent alarm bells ringing among Indian officials.

In 2017, India's intervention had halted China's construction activities in Doklam, a disputed territory. The standoff, which lasted 73 days, ended with the withdrawal of Indian and Chinese troops from the area. However, new satellite images have left India stunned. China has built entire villages around Doklam, bolstering its presence in the region. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has not yet officially responded to the development.