Giligt Baltistan: Where the 3rd World War will be over ?

Gilgit -Baltistan is a remarkable strategic crossroad region of the world, with 28,000 square miles of area situated in the midst of four nuclear powers. This noteworthy constituency between China, Pakistan, Central Asian Republics and India is also known as “Where the empires meet” or “Where the powers meet”. The three highest mountain ranges of the world i.e. Karakoram, Hindukush and Himalaya also join hands here. This region is the focus of attention of tourists and adventurers, world over, extensively rich in mineral wealth and immense natural resources.

According to the analysts "The Third World War will be over fresh water". Glaciers, rivers and streams of Karakorum, Hamalaya and Hindukush are the second big source of fresh water in the world. In order to win the war over fresh water in the near future USA has fixed her eyes over Deosai Plateau.

The Deosai Plateau, known as the highest plateau in the world is located at the boundary of the Karakoram and the western Himalayas. Deosai Plains are at about 30 kilometres from Skardu at an average elevation of 3500 metre.
It is a beautiful summer pasture with greenery and countless species of Fiona flora. The view of the Karakorum Range from the top of the 4785 meter pass is legendary. Apart from fairies, this plateau is the habitat of the greatly threatened Himalayan Brown Bear and many other wild animals.
Due to its geographical and defensive importance, USA and UK has often asked Pakistan to let them use these plains for their military purposes, but this is delayed or refused by the Pakistani Government due to the opposition and resistance of the local population. USA can raise the agenda of protecting fresh water from atomic explosion, chemical pollution and Talibanisation to take control of the entire region.USA also needs air base surrounding the Karakuram Highway to monitor the activities of China.
Mostly it is thought that China will not tolerate the interference of USA in these areas. It is a one sided thought because the interference of USA in Gilgit-Baltistan does not affect China rather it will protect the interests of China. China is very suspicious about the growing activities of Taliban in NWPF the adjacent areas of Gilgit-Baltistan because China does not likes such activities on its border areas and if USA will engaged this area China will take a sign of relief.
To please China, America has offered concessions in the world trade market and also regarding Hong Kong. The hatred for USA by religious clerics are at its own place but if Dollar will replace Rayal and Tuman then new sermons will change the opinion of the masses.

By
Manzoor Hussain Parwana

{The writer is Editor of Monthly Magazine "Kargil International' (Banned). He is chairman of Gilgit Baltistan United Movement, a pro-independent organization in Baltistan.}