Bangladesh’s geographical boundary with India is now under integrated advanced technological surveillance and communication systems, alongside traditional patrolling methods, to prevent cross-border smuggling, drug trafficking, and trespassing.
The paramilitary force Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been expanding its operational capabilities along the border, which stretches across thousands of kilometers, through increased use of modern technology, complementing conventional patrols with advanced monitoring and communication systems.
Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras, thermal imaging, night-vision devices, drones, radars and digital communication equipment are adding new dimensions to border security, helping detect suspicious movements and put off cross-border crimes such as smuggling, drug trafficking and unlawful entry.
“The force has been expanding the use of modern technology in line with geographical features, security risks and operational requirements along the border,” Director (Operations) at the BGB Headquarters Lt Col Md Mahbub Murshed Rahman told BSS.
He said emphasis is being placed on making overall border security more effective by integrating technology-based surveillance with conventional patrols.
Lt Col Mahbub Murshed said CCTV and remote-monitoring cameras enable BGB personnel to observe activities in designated areas, while thermal imaging helps detect heat signatures in darkness and low-visibility conditions. Night-vision devices also facilitate surveillance and patrol operations after dark, he added.
“The coordinated use of these technologies helps identify suspicious activities and assess situations,” he said.
Drones offer further opportunities to monitor vast and inaccessible border areas, including rivers and chars, by collecting aerial information on local conditions. Radars and other sensor-based systems can also help detect movement in specific operational contexts, the BGB official said.
Modern radio and digital communication systems facilitate information sharing and rapid coordination among personnel deployed in the field.
However, Lt Col Mahbub Murshed stressed that technology could not replace border guards; rather, it enhanced their operational capabilities. Trained personnel, local knowledge, effective use of intelligence and timely decision-making remain essential to ensuring border security, he added.
He also underscored the need for proper installation, regular maintenance, reliable power and communication infrastructure, and skilled operators to ensure the effective use of surveillance equipment.
Data security, responsible use of technology and compliance with applicable laws and human rights principles are equally important, he added.
According to official Indian figures, the Bangladesh-India border stretches 4,096.7 kilometres, while Bangladesh shares a border of approximately 271 kilometres with Myanmar.
The varied terrain, including rivers, hills, forests, chars and remote areas, poses significant operational challenges for effective surveillance.
To address these challenges, the BGB continues to establish new Border Outposts (BOPs), upgrade existing infrastructure and expand the use of modern surveillance equipment.
BGB Public Relations Officer (PRO) Md Shariful Islam told BSS that the force continued to use modern technology and infrastructure as required to safeguard the frontiers, protect border communities and combat cross-border crimes.
He said the integration of technology-based surveillance, intelligence and field patrols has been strengthening the force’s ability to prevent border crimes and respond swiftly to emerging situations.
As part of its ongoing modernisation, the BGB remains focused on effective technology deployment, personnel training and improvements in border management to protect the country’s sovereignty and border security, he added.
