The South Bengal Frontier, responsible for securing the 913-kilometer-long international border, has extensively implemented electronic surveillance alongside conventional measures such as security checkpoints and foot patrols.
The responsibility for guarding the international border between India and Bangladesh lies with the Border Security Force (BSF). In light of the worsening political and economic conditions in Bangladesh, security measures have been significantly strengthened. The BSF is employing a combination of traditional methods and advanced technologies to curb drug trafficking and human smuggling.
As per a senior BSF official, the South Bengal Frontier, responsible for securing the 913-kilometer-long international border, has extensively implemented electronic surveillance alongside conventional measures such as security checkpoints and foot patrols. According to the official, nearly half of the 913-kilometer-long border under the South Bengal Frontier remains unfenced. In these challenging terrains, including riverine areas, the BSF has adopted various strategies to prevent drug trafficking and human smuggling.
The official revealed that permanent cameras, along with ‘Pan, Tilt, and Zoom’ (PTZ) cameras, have been deployed in large numbers to monitor every activity along the unfenced stretches. Equipped with night vision and advanced sensors, these cameras can detect any human activity near the border.
Speaking to reporters at Petrapole in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, located about 110 kilometers from Kolkata, the official explained that information from these surveillance systems is relayed to guards through control rooms.
At Petrapole, within a 32-kilometer-long stretch of the battalion’s command area, fencing covers only 11 kilometers. The remaining areas are secured using a combination of traditional methods and modern technology.
The official said, “To prevent drug and human trafficking, we ensure the optimal utilization of security personnel, technology, and resources.”
In an interview with ANI, DIG (PRO) of the South Bengal Frontier, Nilotpal Kumar Pandey, commended the unwavering dedication of BSF personnel. “Our jawans are fully committed to their duties and understand the significance of their responsibilities. They are performing their tasks with complete dedication,” he stated.
Reports suggest that Bangladeshi nationals are attempting to cross into India through the unfinished sections of the border. In areas such as BOP Jayantipur, Betna, and Petrapole, single-row fencing is only partially completed. Despite this, BSF personnel are stationed around the clock to thwart infiltration and illegal activities.
“The finishing touches on the fencing are still pending, but our soldiers remain vigilant 24/7 to prevent infiltration, smuggling, and human trafficking,” Pandey affirmed.
