INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
NEW DELHI: Russia and China have discussed building a "tunnel under the water" that would connect mainland Russia with Crimea.Ukrainian
secret services intercepted communications showing Russian and Chinese business executives, holding talks about the plans.One of China's
major construction companies is interested in being part of the initiative and a Russian-Chinese "consortium " has been set up, according to
The Washington Post.Reportedly, Russia is keen to create a safe transportation route to Crimea
The talks came about following two Ukrainian bomb attacks on the bridge that connects Russia to Crimea over the Kerch Strait.The state-owned
Chinese Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) has indicated it would be willing to take on the ambitious tunnel project and is ready to
ensure the construction of railway and road construction projects in the Crimean region.CRCC plays a crucial role in Beijing's Belt and Road
Initiative to enhance global influence by investing in and constructing transportation and infrastructure projects
The company has formed significant connections with Russia, participating in projects such as the extension of the Moscow subway, finished
in 2021.Russia also has supported similar infrastructure ventures in areas of Ukraine currently under its control
According to reports, satellite images reveal the development of new railway segments along the Sea of Azov coast, connecting these regions
to mainland Russia and Crimea.In 2014, Russia took control of Crimea from Ukraine
The underwater tunnel in this conflict zone is likely to cost billions of dollars and is expected to take longer than usual.The construction
process is expected to span several years due to the complex nature of the project and the challenging circumstances in the region,
according to The Washington Post
