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The Mystery of the Chicken Neck Corridor: Why has it become the lifeline of Northeast India?
Located around the city of Siliguri in West Bengal, India, the Chicken Neck Corridor, also known as the "Chicken Neck", is a narrow land gap with great strategic significance. This corridor, which is about 20 to 22 km wide, connects the seven states of Northeast India with the rest of India. It is surrounded by Nepal and Bangladesh on both sides, and Bhutan at the northern end of the corridor. It is also an important transportation hub in Southeast Asia, connecting Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh, as well as major cities in Northeast India such as Darjeeling.
"The Chicken Neck Corridor is not only a geographical passage, but also an emergency lifeline between Northeast India and the outside world."
Historical Background of the Corridor
Since the partition of India in 1947, the formation of the Chicken Neck Corridor has been inextricably linked to the geopolitics of the time. At that time, the British announced the end of colonial rule, which was followed by the partition of India and Pakistan. The separation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and Kolkata made Siliguri increasingly important. In addition, the Kingdom of Bhutan’s location on the northern side of the corridor further enhances the region’s geostrategic value. In 1975, the Kingdom of Sikkim merged into India, providing a more secure guarantee for transportation to the north.
Geographic location and latitude
The exact size of the Chicken Neck Corridor varies in different literatures, with the narrowest part being approximately 20–22 km, but the length is generally considered to be 200 km, the width ranging from 17 km to 60 km, and the total area close to 12,200 square kilometers. To the south of this corridor is Bangladesh, to the northwest is Nepal, and to the north is the mountainous region bordering Bhutan.Current Situation
Connectivity and Logistics
Currently, the Indian government is carrying out several large-scale construction projects to improve connectivity to the northeastern states, including road construction on the India-China border and the "Eastern Link" cross-border connection project. These measures are intended to reduce reliance on the Chicken Neck Corridor and provide more access options to the Northeast. Currently, this corridor is the only land transport route between India and the Northeast region, with important railway lines on it.
"The operation of the corridor is not only crucial for internal logistics, but also carries great responsibility for international trade."
Security situation
In terms of security, India has stationed multiple military forces around the corridor, including the Army and Border Security Force. Although the corridor's security threat has decreased since Bangladesh's independence in 1971, it still faces challenges from radical groups such as the United Liberation Army of Assam (ULFA) and the National Socialist Nagaland Association (NSCN). In addition, high alert regarding Chinese military actions persists and the security situation in the region remains fluid.
Reflections in popular culture
This special region is not only a focus of geopolitics, but also appears in popular culture. For example, author Humphry Hawkesley in his novel Dragon's Fire describes a scenario surrounding this passage, demonstrating its potential risks in international relations.
Conclusion
The Chicken Neck Corridor, with its unique geographical location and multiple cultural backgrounds, has become an important lifeline for Northeast India and its surrounding areas. As times change, how will the future of this corridor affect India’s geopolitical and economic development?
