Siliguri, May 24 -- A stretch of the India-Bangladesh border along the Mahananda River in Murikhawa village under the Phansidewa Chathat region of Siliguri subdivision is set to have barbed-wire fencing, bringing relief to local residents who have long alleged rampant smuggling and illegal activities through the river route.

For years, nearly one kilometre of the border in the area remained unfenced as the Mahananda River flowed between India and Bangladesh, acting as a natural boundary. According to villagers, the absence of fencing allowed cattle smuggling and other illegal activities to thrive along the river route.

Residents claimed that smugglers frequently moved cattle through agricultural fields, causing significant damage to crops. Apart from cattle smuggling, several anti-social activities were reportedly carried out through the unfenced river corridor. There have also been instances in the past where clashes between smugglers and BSF personnel were also reported. Following directions from Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to strengthen border security, the process of handing over land to the BSF has begun.

In Murikhawa, land acquisition from farmers is underway for the fencing project, with compensation being provided to affected landowners. Most farmers have reportedly received their dues, while the remaining cases are being processed by the Land and Land Reforms Department following document verification.

Officials claim that BSF surveillance in the border area has already intensified, with increased patrolling and modern monitoring systems helping curb infiltration and smuggling activities compared to previous years. Villagers believe the installation of fencing will further strengthen security and prevent illegal activities.

Local resident Anil Ghosh said: "Earlier, cattle were frequently taken across the river, causing extensive damage to crops. There were also multiple clashes involving BSF personnel. We hope the fencing will bring peace to the area and help stop illegal activities."

Raju Toppo, another resident, said: "We have been living here in fear for years. Most of the illegal activities took place at night, and some incidents also occurred during

those activities. We are very happy that fencing will be installed in the area, and we will be able to live safely with our family members."

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.