India Strengthens Border Security with Completion of 9 km Fencing at Manipur’s Moreh

New Delhi: India has successfully completed a 9.214 km-long fencing project at Moreh, a crucial border town in Manipur, along the India-Myanmar border. This initiative, part of a broader strategy to enhance national security and curtail illegal cross-border activities, also includes the construction of a road parallel to the fence, which is currently in progress.The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in its Annual Report for 2023-2024, highlighted the project’s significance. The report stated:“The construction of fencing for a border length of 9.214 km at Moreh, awarded to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), has been completed, and work on the road along the fence is ongoing.”The India-Myanmar border spans 1,643 km and traverses four northeastern states—Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Nagaland (215 km), Manipur (398 km), and Mizoram (510 km). While 1,472 km of this border has already been demarcated, its porous nature has made it a hotspot for smuggling, insurgent activities, and illegal migration.The Moreh fencing project plays a critical role in addressing these challenges. As a prominent trade hub and strategic location, Moreh has long been a focal point for cross-border activities. The completion of the fence is expected to significantly curb illicit movements and enhance the region’s overall security.
In addition to the fencing project at Moreh, India is undertaking several other initiatives to strengthen border security and surveillance. Construction work on two pilot projects featuring hybrid surveillance systems—spanning one kilometer each in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur—has been awarded to Assam Rifles, with progress currently underway.
The BRO has also been entrusted with constructing 20.862 km of additional fencing and a parallel road along the border. This project, approved in February 2024, underscores India’s commitment to bolstering its border infrastructure and securing its northeastern states.
Moreh, located along the Manipur-Myanmar border, holds significant geopolitical and economic importance. As a key trade route and cultural crossroads, the town has immense potential for fostering economic growth and regional connectivity. The newly constructed border fence, coupled with ongoing infrastructure development, is expected to improve accessibility for security forces, enabling more effective patrolling and ensuring better connectivity in the region.The India-Myanmar border has historically posed unique challenges due to its rugged terrain and dense forests. These conditions have facilitated illegal activities and hindered effective patrolling. The recent developments, including the fencing project and hybrid surveillance systems, are critical steps toward addressing these issues.By enhancing border security and infrastructure, India aims to promote stability in the northeastern states while fostering economic development and regional integration. These measures reflect the government’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges of the region and ensuring the safety and prosperity of its border communities.As work continues on the parallel road and other projects, the completed fence at Moreh represents a milestone in India’s efforts to secure its borders and strengthen its northeastern frontier.