India and Nepal Launch Joint Border Survey to Remove Encroachments
In a significant move to bolster border security and management, India and Nepal have officially launched a joint survey of their international boundary. This collaborative effort spans seven districts, including East Champaran and West Champaran in Bihar, with the primary objective of eliminating encroachments from no man's land and curbing infiltration activities along the porous frontier.
First Meeting of Joint Field Survey Teams
The inaugural meeting of the India-Nepal joint field survey teams (FST) was convened at the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) headquarters in Raxaul on March 24. The session was chaired by East Champaran District Magistrate Saurabh Jorwal and attended by administrative and police officials from border districts of both nations. Discussions centered on various technical aspects concerning the maintenance and security of boundary pillars.
The Indian delegation was led by Jorwal and included district magistrates and superintendents of police from Supaul, Madhubani, Sitamarhi, East Champaran, and West Champaran. The Nepali delegation was headed by Siraha District Magistrate Surendra Paudel, with officials from Dhanusha, Siraha, Mahottari, Sarlahi, Rautahat, Bara, Parsa, and Chitwan districts participating.
Survey Objectives and Timeline
During the meeting, Jorwal emphasized that the FST would operate in strict adherence to the mandate of the 7th Boundary Working Group and the recommendations of the 12th Survey Officials Committee. The comprehensive survey will involve examining existing boundary pillars, repairing those that are damaged, constructing new pillars where necessary, and relocating missing markers to ensure precise demarcation.
The exercise is anticipated to be completed within one month, aiming to strengthen coordination and management along the India-Nepal border. Authorities have already begun removing encroachments from no man's land. Over the past three days, the Nepali administration cleared encroachments near Ahirawa Tola and Premnagar close to Raxaul, while the SSB dismantled structures in Palanawa.
Enhancing Border Sanctity
SSB 47 Battalion Commandant Sanjay Pandey stated, "Action is being taken to maintain the sanctity of the border, and no illegal occupation will be tolerated." This firm stance underscores the commitment of both countries to securing their shared boundary. The FST is expected to submit an interim report to the Ministry of Home Affairs within 15 days, providing updates on progress and any immediate findings.
This joint initiative marks a proactive step in addressing long-standing border issues, fostering bilateral cooperation, and ensuring a more secure and well-defined frontier between India and Nepal.
