September 22, 2024
Aksai Chin is often referred to as the "Soda Plain" due to its salt-laden soil. The arid climate and high altitude contribute to the formation of salt deposits.
Despite its harsh conditions, Aksai Chin harbors a few oases, primarily along the Karakash River. These oases provide vital water sources for the region's sparse vegetation and wildlife.
Due to its location, Aksai Chin serves as a strategic crossroads between China's Xinjiang and Tibet Autonomous Regions. Its control is crucial for maintaining communication and trade routes between these two regions.
Geographically, Aksai Chin is an extension of the Tibetan Plateau. This high-altitude desert shares similar geological and climatic features with the plateau.
The ownership of Aksai Chin has been a major source of contention between India and China for decades. Both countries claim the region as part of their territory, leading to border disputes and military tensions.