Overhaul of entire Punjab border security on cards after Pathankot

The border security infrastructure in Punjab is likely to be overhauled in the aftermath of the Pathankot terror strike, the second infiltration by Pakistan-based terrorists in the state within last five months, sources told HT.

The border security infrastructure in Punjab is likely to be overhauled in the aftermath of the Pathankot terror strike, the second infiltration by Pakistan-based terrorists in the state within last five months, sources told HT.

The border security infrastructure in Punjab is likely to be overhauled in the aftermath of the Pathankot terror strike. (PTI Photo)

Border Security Force (BSF) chief DK Pathak reached Gurdaspur on Tuesday to assess the situation. Punjab shares 560-km long border with Pakistan.

“The preliminary assessment is that the border fence has become weak at some places. There is less than adequate deployment of troops at some points on the Indo-Pak border, especially at the riverine area which is more prone to infiltration and where regular fencing is not possible.

Besides, there is problem of wild boars in some of the bordering districts in Punjab. Wild boars keep digging below the fence, making small passages which also weaken the structure,” said a senior government official, requesting anonymity.

There is a concrete base below the fence at most places and the BSF would be asked to ensure the same at all places in order to strengthen it, added the official.

The BSF has been asked to give details of areas from where the terrorists may have entered India. “There were few issues that we have noticed and immediate steps are being taken to address them in order to strengthen the security at border,” said a BSF official, requesting anonymity.