Operation Sard Hawa: BSF Intensifies Vigil on Pakistan Border

Ahead of Republic Day, the Border Security Force (BSF) has heightened its vigilance along the India-Pakistan border at Jaisalmer to prevent any potential infiltration attempts. The BSF has initiated a special operation named ‘Operation Sard Hawa’, starting on January 22, aimed at foiling infiltration efforts by taking advantage of the reduced visibility caused by the dense winter fog. The operation will continue until January 29, with a focus on strengthening security along the border during this critical period.

Purpose and Scope of ‘Operation Sard Hawa’

The primary goal of Operation Sard Hawa is to thwart any infiltration attempts, as the dense fog and mist during the winter season create ideal conditions for such attempts. BSF Commandant Harbans Singh emphasized that the operation is part of the BSF’s routine security measures, which includes ‘Operation Garam Hawa’ in the summer months to ensure round-the-clock security along the border. While Operation Garam Hawa is conducted to address the challenges of high temperatures and harsh summer conditions, Operation Sard Hawa is specifically designed to deal with the low visibility created by winter fog, making border infiltration more difficult to detect.

During this operation, the BSF will deploy enhanced security measures, using ultra-modern weapons and advanced technical instruments to effectively monitor the border in low-visibility conditions. The use of such advanced technologies is crucial in detecting and preventing unauthorized crossings, especially during the foggy winter season when traditional monitoring methods may not be as effective.

Increased Deployment and Patrolling

As part of the operation, the BSF has increased its presence and patrolling along the border. Soldiers and officers from various sectors, including those from the BSF headquarters, will be stationed at critical border posts. All personnel will be equipped with state-of-the-art weapons, ensuring that they are well-prepared to respond to any security threats. Additionally, advanced technical instruments will be deployed to help personnel see through the dense fog and mist, enhancing their ability to detect suspicious activities along the border.

The BSF will also conduct patrolling on foot, in vehicles, and on camels. Camel patrolling is especially significant in areas that are difficult to access by vehicles due to rough terrain. This method has been proven effective in past operations and will help ensure thorough monitoring of border areas, particularly in inaccessible regions.

Role of Intelligence and Coordination with Agencies

The success of Operation Sard Hawa depends not only on physical patrols but also on the efficiency of the intelligence-gathering network. BSF’s intelligence wing will be working in close coordination with other intelligence agencies to monitor and respond to any suspicious activities in the border region. This collaboration ensures that every lead is followed and that all possible security threats are neutralized before they escalate.

Furthermore, the BSF will conduct continuous surveillance using modern technologies, including drones and night-vision equipment, which will be critical in maintaining a clear view of the border during both day and night operations. Special attention will be given to police posts located near the border, ensuring that there is no lapse in the security coverage in these sensitive areas.

Patrolling and Vigilance on the Border

A major component of the operation involves patrolling the border at all hours, with BSF officers and soldiers maintaining a constant presence near the fencing that demarcates the border between India and Pakistan. During this operation, all personnel will be present and actively engaged in monitoring and securing the area. The patrolling teams will cover both day and night shifts, ensuring that there is no respite for any infiltrators attempting to cross the border.

To further strengthen the security on the ground, the BSF will be deploying additional manpower to cover all strategic points along the border. Soldiers will be stationed at key locations, ensuring comprehensive coverage and maintaining a visible presence that acts as a deterrent to potential infiltrators.

Key Objectives and Strategic Importance of Operation Sard Hawa

The core objectives of Operation Sard Hawa are multi-faceted, with a clear focus on strengthening both security and surveillance along the border:

1. Strengthening Security: The BSF has significantly increased the deployment of weapons and manpower on the border. This enhanced presence is designed to make it more difficult for any infiltrators to breach the border security.
2. Enhanced Soldier Deployment: The strength of soldiers deployed on the border has been increased. With the support of modern equipment, the additional personnel will provide the necessary manpower to maintain a constant and vigilant watch on the border.
3. Surveillance and Intelligence: A strong emphasis is placed on improving the surveillance and intelligence system to detect and thwart any infiltration attempts. This includes the use of advanced surveillance technologies and cooperation with other intelligence agencies to ensure comprehensive monitoring of the border area.
4. Domination of the Border: The operation ensures that the BSF dominates the border during both day and night. This continuous presence serves as both a deterrent and an active security measure to protect the country’s borders from potential threats.