Amit Shah reviews border security in West Bengal, unveils three BSF projects

Union Home Minister Amit Shah conducted an on-ground review of border security along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal, marking his first such inspection since the BJP assumed office in the state. During his visit, Shah inspected an indigenous radio-based fence breach detection system. This technology instantly alerts Border Security Force (BSF) personnel when the border fence is tampered with, aligning with the central government's strategy to bolster border security through technological advancements.

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The Narendra Modi government is moving forward with a zero tolerance against smuggling of narcotics substances, economic crimes and infiltration in border areas. Now long pending infrastructure works related to national security will be completed on a priority basis. At the end, with the establishment of a quadrilateral security grid here, the border will become completely secure and impregnable.

The visit was part of Shah's three-day tour of West Bengal, focused on reviewing security arrangements, discussing law and order, and inaugurating border infrastructure projects. The radio-based smart fencing system is a key component of the government's broader plan to deploy advanced surveillance technologies across India's eastern and western frontiers. Shah emphasized the government's commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against the smuggling of narcotics, economic crimes, and infiltration in border areas. He stated that long-pending infrastructure works related to national security would be prioritized, and the establishment of a quadrilateral security grid would render the border completely secure and impenetrable.

The system broadcasts a pre-recorded warning message immediately upon detecting any breach or tampering of the border fence, enabling swift response from troops. Shah also reviewed an infrared alarm system suitable for challenging terrains, such as riverine stretches and gaps in fencing, which triggers alerts when infrared beams are interrupted. Approximately 180 km of the 2,216.7-km India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal traverses riverine terrain where traditional fencing is not feasible. Additionally, Shah reviewed a gate management system designed to ensure safe and smooth movement for civilians and farmers residing along the border. The government's objective is to create 'smart borders' by implementing indigenous, state-of-the-art technologies to enhance surveillance, prevent infiltration, and boost the operational capabilities of the BSF.

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The government’s focus is on building smart borders by deploying indigenous, state-of-the-art technologies that strengthen surveillance, prevent infiltration and enhance the operational capability of the BSF.

During the visit, Shah virtually laid the foundation stone for three BSF infrastructure projects valued at ₹47 crore. He also launched the construction of a 4-km border fence, costing ₹30 crore, on newly acquired land for two border outposts in West Bengal. Addressing BSF personnel in Siliguri, Shah reiterated the Modi-led government's dedication to making India's borders impregnable through a quadrangular security grid. He had previously announced plans for a new border security system.

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The home minister had earlier said that the Centre would soon unveil a new border security system that would involve not only border