India To Spend ₹370 Crore for Fencing Myanmar Border: Reports

New Delhi: India is set to invest approximately $3.7 billion in securing its 1,610-km (1,000-mile) border with Myanmar over the next decade. The move aims to curb smuggling and illegal activities, following the decision to end visa-free movement for border citizens in light of national security concerns.

According to reports, a government committee has recently approved the fencing project’s budget, awaiting final clearance from the cabinet. Key government offices, however, have not responded to inquiries regarding this development.

The decision comes amidst escalating tensions since Myanmar’s military coup in 2021, leading to an influx of refugees into Indian territories, particularly in the northeastern region where ethnic ties are prevalent. The Centre is wary of potential communal tensions spilling over from Myanmar, particularly in Manipur, where violence has erupted between ethnic groups.

In addition to the fence, the plan includes constructing parallel roads along the border and feeder roads connecting military bases, totalling 1,700 km (1,050 miles). The estimated cost of the project is approximately 125 million rupees per kilometre, attributed to challenging terrain and the implementation of advanced technology for enhanced security measures. Myanmar has not yet responded to India’s fencing proposals.