SHILLONG, May 7: In response to growing security concerns following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Meghalaya government has directed authorities in two border districts to fast-track the fencing process along the India-Bangladesh border.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong announced the decision after a high-level security meeting on Tuesday. He revealed that more than 40 kilometres of the international border in Meghalaya remain unfenced, primarily due to unresolved land acquisition issues.
“The deputy commissioners of East Jaintia Hills and West Jaintia Hills, both adjoining Bangladesh, have been asked to treat this work as a top priority and expedite the process,” Tynsong told reporters.
He further noted that parts of West Jaintia Hills, approximately 33–34 kilometres, and East Khasi Hills, around 7–8 kilometres, are still without border fencing due to delays in acquiring the required land. “Given the current national security environment, especially for a border state like ours, this is no longer a delay we can afford,” he said.
The high-level meeting was also attended by BSF Meghalaya Frontier Inspector General OP Upadhyay, who assured that the Border Security Force is on high alert and prepared to handle any situation. “Completion of fencing will enhance our operational capabilities and improve surveillance along the border,” he stated.
In a related development, the Home Guards Department announced that civil defence mock drills would be conducted statewide on Wednesday evening. These drills will include an air raid siren at 6:30 pm, followed by a two-minute ‘Operation Blackout’.
Authorities have urged residents not to panic, emphasising that the exercise is part of routine preparedness measures to strengthen civilian awareness and readiness during emergencies.
