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India to Construct 383 New Border Outposts Along Bangladesh Border to Strengthen Security

First Published: 3rd January, 2025 18:10 IST

To combat infiltration, smuggling, and illegal activities, the Indian government has been constructing border fencing along this frontier.

The Government of India has sanctioned the construction of 509 Composite Border Outposts (BOPs) along the India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders, out of which 383 will be constructed on the India-Bangladesh frontier.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs’ annual report for 2023-24, these BOPs are important operational workstations for the Border Security Force (BSF), which patrols the borders.

BOPs are designed as self-contained defence outposts with designated areas of responsibility. They serve to deter trans-border criminals, infiltrators, and hostile elements by maintaining a robust presence. Each BOP is equipped with infrastructure for accommodation, logistics, and combat operations. Currently, there are 1,113 BOPs along the India-Bangladesh border.

The India-Bangladesh border, spanning 4,096.7 km, passes through West Bengal (2,216.7 km), Assam (263 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Tripura (856 km), and Mizoram (318 km). The terrain is challenging, featuring plains, riverine belts, hills, and jungles. Many areas are densely populated and cultivated right up to the border, adding to the complexities of border management.

To combat infiltration, smuggling, and illegal activities, the Indian government has been constructing border fencing along this frontier. Of the total border length, 3,196.705 km is already covered by physical fencing, while the remaining stretches will be secured using advanced technological solutions. The older design fences are being replaced with newer, more robust designs. However, construction in certain areas has faced delays due to riverine and low-lying terrain, habitation close to the border, land acquisition challenges, and resistance from local populations.

The report further said that, the government has also prioritised building border roads to enhance communication and operational mobility in these areas. Out of the 4,223.04 km of border roads sanctioned, 3,785.30 km have been completed.

To bolster night-time surveillance, the government is installing floodlights along the border in West Bengal, Meghalaya, Assam, Mizoram, and Tripura. Out of the sanctioned 3,077.549 km of border floodlights, work has been completed on 2,729.236 km.

Despite challenging terrain, including hills, rivers, and valleys, the BSF has been steadfastly maintaining security along the Indo-Bangla border. With these new measures, including additional BOPs and technological advancements, India aims to further strengthen its border management and prevent illegal cross-border activities.

Also Read: Is Northeast Becoming the Gateway for Trafficking Bangladeshi Nationals into India?

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