Agartala, Sept 13:
Tripura is set to strengthen security along its 856-km international border with Bangladesh through modern smart fencing, technology-based surveillance and closer coordination among security forces and civil administration, Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha said on Sunday.
Saha said the state was focusing on a multi-layered security mechanism along the border, with the Border Security Force (BSF) in the frontline, followed by the Tripura State Rifles and state police. He stressed the need for seamless coordination and rapid sharing of information among the agencies.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a blood donation programme organised by the Rotary Club of Agartala at the BSF headquarters in Salbagan, Saha said border-area issues also needed to be addressed with sensitivity, keeping in view the difficulties faced by residents living along the international boundary.
He said a pilot project for smart fencing was being taken up in Sipahijala district, using sensors and modern surveillance technologies to strengthen monitoring, particularly in difficult terrain.
The Centre has been pursuing a broader shift towards technology-enabled border management, integrating manpower, sensors, networks, intelligence and command-and-control systems. The Union Home Ministry has also said technological solutions would supplement physical fencing in stretches where conventional fencing is difficult.
Saha said approval had been given for replacement of around 119 km of fencing that is more than 15 years old in Tripura. The move assumes significance as large portions of the state’s existing border fence have been in place for years and are vulnerable to deterioration caused by weather, erosion and difficult terrain.
The security measures are aimed at preventing infiltration, human trafficking and narcotics smuggling while improving overall border management. At the same time, the Centre’s border-management approach seeks to secure international boundaries while facilitating legitimate trade and commerce through improved border infrastructure and technology.
Tripura accounts for 856 km of India’s 4,096.7-km international border with Bangladesh, and most of the state’s boundary is already fenced.
