Type: Parliament Questions and Answers

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government is aware of the fact that Pakistan is building a railway station close to zero line near Munabao in Barmer sector with the help of China;

(b) whether Government is aware that the construction of railway station in zero line area by Pakistan is a violation of international laws; and

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

ANSWER THE MINISTER OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS (SHRI S.M. KRISHNA)

(a) to (c) A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.

STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (A) TO (C) OF THE RAJYA SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.328 REGARDING “PAKISTAN BUILDING RAILWAY STATION NEAR MUNABAO” FOR ANSWER ON 15.12.2011

(a) 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 meters from International Border between India and Pakistan. According to reports, Pakistan Railways has recently 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.
(b) & (c) After signing of the Simla Agreement in 1972, India does not recognize the Border Ground Rule 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.

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.

http://www.mea.gov.in/mystart.php?id=220118795

Pakistan
South Asia