BSF Urges CPWD to Prioritize Fencing of Indo-Bangladesh Border
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On March 31, BSF's Ravi Gandhi emphasized the urgency of fencing the Indo-Bangladesh Border, directing CPWD to expedite land acquisition and project completion, ensuring heightened security for vulnerable areas.
Key Takeaways
- BSF prioritizes border fencing projects.
- CPWD directed to expedite land acquisition.
- Increased vulnerability of areas within 150 yards of the IB.
- Local villagers report attacks by Bangladeshi criminals.
- ADG assures commitment to national security.
Kolkata, March 31 (NationPress) Ravi Gandhi, the additional director general of the BSF, Eastern Command, has instructed the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) to secure land as needed and expedite the completion of fencing projects along the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB) as a top priority.
The ADG conducted a review of the border situation in the Malda and Murshidabad districts of West Bengal, where the BSF's Area of Domination has been moved closer to the International Border (IB).
In numerous locations, especially in the fenced sections of the IBB, the BSF's Area of Domination commences beyond the fence, situated 150 yards from the IB. The area within this 150-yard stretch, which includes farmland owned by Indian villagers and some zero-line villages, becomes particularly vulnerable at night.
Residents living near the fence have frequently reported assaults from Bangladeshi criminals, while farmers have stated that their crops are often stolen or damaged at night by individuals from across the IB.
The ADG, accompanied by Karani Singh Shekhawat, IG of the South Bengal Frontier, and Tarun Kumar Gautam, DIG of the Malda Sector, visited Malda and Murshidabad along with CPWD officials. He evaluated the evolving situation in these districts, influenced by events in Bangladesh, and held discussions with officials from various agencies and the police. He emphasized that security along the IBB will remain stringent without exception, according to a senior BSF official.
The ADG's first stop was the 71 Bn BSF headquarters at Baishnabnagar, Malda, followed by an inspection of the newly-built patrol base at Itaghati, where he assessed the progress in moving the Domination Line nearer to the IB within the responsibility of Border Outposts Beldanga and Itaghati, under the 88 Bn BSF.
He addressed the issue of completing the remaining 29 km stretch of fencing in this area with the CPWD, making it clear that any oversight along this sensitive border could pose a serious national threat.
In Murshidabad, he visited Border Outpost Chandnichak (under the 71 Bn BSF) and discussed ongoing fencing and land acquisition projects with both BSF and CPWD officials.
He spoke with the soldiers and listened to their experiences managing the border, especially regarding Char land. Chars are sandy riverbanks of the Padma that are highly susceptible to cross-border movements.
He also engaged with local residents who shared how the extension of the Domination Line towards the IB has aided in safeguarding their crops. The ADG assured them that the BSF will continue to do everything possible to protect their interests,” the official added.
