The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is keen on virtual fencing of challenging areas along the border with Bangladesh and Pakistan in a bid to tackle illegal immigration, terrorist infiltration and drug smuggling.
The idea to use advanced technological solutions such as sensors and motion detectors for tough terrains came after deliberations with officials of Border Security Force (BSF) and state governments.
The Indo-Bangladesh border includes 1,100 km of riverine and delta areas and hence could not be fenced. Security agencies have told the MHA that these spots need virtual fencing.
Similarly, around 400 km on the Indo-Pakistan border remain vulnerable due to creeks, tropical jungles and deserts.
The MHA officials attested that fencing was not feasible in such areas and hence the plan to use sophisticated equipment.
“The ministry has decided to invite companies to demonstrate advanced technologies for effective border management. Once it is done, suitable technology may be deployed to check illegal cross-border activities,” they added.
Sources confirmed that the MHA was keen on deployment of border security solutions, including thermal image devices and laser detection and mobile surveillance equipment, at difficult terrains in Jammu and Kashmir and Rajasthan.
The Indo-Pak border in Rann of Kutch also remains a big challenge as fencing work there has missed its deadline due to difficult terrain. Of the 2,044 km of fencing sanctioned, work on 1,941 km has been completed so far.
The BSF officials are also studying technologies used by Israel to prevent infiltration along their border areas with Gaza and Egypt. Israel is believed to be using advanced radar system in a big way to reduce the cost of physically guarding every inch of its land.
Since 2009, India has spent Rs 1,888 crore on fencing and floodlighting its border areas with Bangladesh, Myanmar and Pakistan.