Border security top priority amid flood-relief ops: Army

Guarding the International Border has been a top priority while undertaking flood-relief operations in Punjab and Jammu over the past few days, the Army said on Monday.

“The border cannot be left unguarded,” said Maj Gen Puneet Ahuja, Major General, General Staff (Operations), Western Command. “The security of the border remained central to our operations and all requisite steps were taken in this regard. While the Army and BSF personnel as well as civilians were evacuated, adequate troop strength remained in place to ensure security of the area,” he added.

Six districts in Punjab–Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Ferozepur and Fazilka–share the International Border with Pakistan. In Jammu region, the affected districts include Samba, Kathua and Jammu.

Maj Gen Ahuja said there were challenges to the rescue operations in some areas, referred to as enclaves, which lie between the border fence and the Ravi and Chenab.

Along certain stretches, the border fence has been damaged while tracks leading to border outposts have been washed away. “We are taking stock of the damages along with the BSF. Restoration works are underway,” he said.

Col Iqbal Singh Arora, Western Command (Headquarters), said flood control and water level monitoring cells had been set up to keep tabs on major dams, barrages and headworks, including Bhakra Dam, Ranjit Sagar Dam and other critical points.

The Army has so far rescued over 5,000 marooned persons, including 4,000 in Punjab and provided 21 tonnes of relief material.

Apart from mobilising 47 columns, 20 aircraft, including Dhruv advanced light helicopters, reconnaissance and observation helicopters, Mi-17s and a Chinook are engaged in round-the-clock missions and have flown over 250 hours so far.

BSF steps up surveillance

Ferozepur: With floodwaters submerging BSF posts and damaging International Border, the security force has intensified surveillance by its water wing that’s equipped with motorboats. Besides thwarting attempts by cross-border smugglers to take advantage of flooding, the BSF personnel are also reaching out to affected people with essential supplies and medicare. As India-Pakistan Joint Check Post (JCP) at Hussainiwala has submerged, the Retreat Ceremony has been cancelled indefinitely.