APF tightens border security amid tensions between India and Pakistan

By Rabindra Upreti

Bardibas, May 11:  Amid escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan, heightened security measures have been enforced along the Nepal–India border. The Armed Police Force (APF), Nepal, has tightened border security in light of the evolving geopolitical situation and the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan.

According to the Chhinnamasta Battalion of the APF based in Bardibas, Madhes Province shares an open border of 461.8 kilometres from east to west with India across all eight districts. From Saptari to Parsa, there are 233 border points, including main, minor and informal crossings.

Due to recent developments in regional security, strict measures have been implemented to control potential unauthorised infiltration and unwanted activities across these border points, according to the APF.

Battalion Chief Krishna Dhakal said that since tensions between India and Pakistan have increased, records are now being kept of individuals crossing the border at all eight district entry points.

With increased security vigilance, the APF has started enforcing stricter movement regulations along the previously unrestricted open border. Anyone entering Nepal via the southern border must now carry valid identification.

The APF is asking those arriving from across the border to fill in a form with personal details, including name and address, before being allowed entry into Nepal.

The recording of travellers’ information began after a special circular was issued by the APF Headquarters. Similarly, India’s Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has also started collecting similar information from individuals crossing into India from Nepal.

"The record-keeping is part of the effort to control and monitor unauthorised border crossings. Everyone must understand the necessity of carrying identification when travelling near a conflict zone. The convenience of travellers is also taken into consideration during the information collection process," said Dhakal. 

In addition to collecting travellers’ details, 187 CCTV cameras have been installed at various points along the border. Dhakal also mentioned that further installations are underway where needed.

He further informed that 24-hour intensive patrols have been launched to control movement through open areas not covered by official crossings. Additional checkpoints are being set up where necessary, along with increased deployment and joint patrols with Nepal Police.

Amid growing security concerns, coordinated patrols and security operations along the border have been intensified in cooperation with India’s SSB.

"When necessary, joint patrols, monitoring, and inspections are being carried out in coordination with the SSB. There is also an ongoing exchange of criminal intelligence," Dhakal said. 

The 38.46-kilometre stretch of southern border adjoining Bihar’s Sitamarhi and Madhubani districts is also regarded as sensitive. Among the crossings, Bhittamod and Raghunathpur now have two checkpoints under the command of APF Deputy Superintendents and seven border outposts under Inspectors, totalling nine units deployed.

The APF has confirmed that 24-hour patrols are now being conducted at these points as well, in response to heightened security sensitivity.