Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:-

(a) whether the Government is aware that Pakistan is constructing a railway station on zero line near Munabao in Barmer sector with the Chinese help;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the Government is aware that this is being done in violation of international laws; and

(d) if so, the steps being taken by the Government in this regard?

ANSWER: THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRIMATI PRENEET KAUR)

(a) & (b) A railway station called “Zero Point” Railway Station exists on the Pakistan side of the International Border opposite Munabao in Barmer Sector. The station was constructed in 2006 and is approximately 10-20 metres from International Border between India and Pakistan. According to reports, Pakistan Railways has undertaken expansion works at “Zero Point” Railway Station platform and immigration office. There are media reports suggesting involvement of a Chinese company in construction activity.

(c) After signing of the Simla Agreement in 1972, India does not recognize the Border Ground Rules Agreement of 1960-61 between India and Pakistan. Agreement on fresh Border Ground Rules is under discussion between the two countries. Presently, the border management on India Pakistan border is being carried out on the basis of informal conventions evolved between the Border Security Force (BSF) and Pakistan Rangers over the years.

(d) The matter has been taken up by BSF with Pakistan Rangers during meetings at various levels. The point also featured during the last Quarterly Meeting held on 16 November 2011, wherein it was reiterated by the Pakistan side that this construction has been undertaken to extend the existing platform and immigration office for better facilities to passengers.

Miscellaneous

South Asia