In a first, marshy Sundarbans to get fenced soon; BSF to expedite work with other govt depts.
The Indian government is planning to install fencing along a 90-kilometer stretch of the Sundarbans border with Bangladesh to enhance national security. The project involves complex logistical challenges due to the region's mangrove forests and tidal terrain, requiring coordination between the Border Security Force and local government departments.
Why it matters
This initiative represents a significant shift in border management for a previously porous and environmentally sensitive region, balancing national security needs with ecological preservation and local land rights.
In a first, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is set to fence about 90 kilometres of the Sundarbans along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal, a challenging terrain characterised by mangrove forests, tidal swamps, embankments and numerous creeks.
The Border Security Force (BSF), which is deployed along the Bangladesh border, has initiated a feasibility and technical study to erect the fence along the land border with Bangladesh, a senior government official told The Hindu . At present, there are no barriers on the ground and the BSF has deployed Floating Border Outposts (FBOPs) in the riverine areas to secure the border. Plans are afoot to augment marine patrolling, the official said.
Praveen Kumar, Director-General, BSF, had visited the Sundarbans from July 11 to 14 and reviewed the progress of the fencing work.
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