By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: The Centre has intensified efforts to strengthen security along the India-Myanmar border by undertaking an extensive border fencing project in Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in the insurgency-affected districts of Tirap, Changlang and Longding (TCL).
These three districts share a porous international boundary with Myanmar and have long been vulnerable to insurgent activities. Security officials say militant groups operating in the Northeast have historically used camps across the border as safe havens, enabling them to move through dense forest corridors into Indian territory.
India and Myanmar share a border stretching approximately 1,643 kilometers across four northeastern states-Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland. Of this, Arunachal Pradesh accounts for the largest segment at around 520 kilometers, followed by Mizoram with 510 kilometers, Manipur with 398 kilometers and Nagaland with 215 kilometers.
According to sources familiar with the security situation, eastern Arunachal Pradesh has remained particularly sensitive because of its extensive border with Myanmar. The TCL region has witnessed recurring incidents linked to insurgent groups, including extortion and abductions, which have affected local residents and business communities.
The fencing project is being executed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), while security forces have been deployed to safeguard workers and monitor the area during construction.
Officials said work in the strategically important Pangsau Pass sector of Changlang district commenced in November last year and continues despite difficult terrain, adverse weather conditions and threats issued by militant organisations active in the region.
For the broader India-Myanmar border management initiative, the Centre has reportedly allocated Rs 31,000 crore and directed agencies to expedite implementation of the project.
Security officials believe the fencing initiative could significantly restrict the movement of insurgent groups by limiting cross-border access and disrupting logistical networks that have operated through the region for years.
Sources indicated that several militant outfits have opposed the project, viewing it as a potential obstacle to their operations. Once completed, the barrier is expected to make cross-border movement more difficult and weaken channels used for recruitment, movement and extortion activities in the TCL districts.