Crocodiles and venomous snakes to guard border; Central government mulling new move

NEW DELHI: What about trying crocodiles and venomous snakes to guard the India-Bangladesh border? It is no joke. The central government consider this to be the effective way to prevent infiltration at the border. It is likely the central government will use crocodiles and snakes in swamps and rivers.

Out of the 4,096 km border, about 175 km are riverbanks and swamps. Infiltration, drug smuggling and gold smuggling are common through this route. This led to the pragmatic proposal to use snakes and crocodiles as natural defences.

However, collecting the dangerous reptiles and putting them in water bodies is a challenge for the army. If poisonous snakes and man-eating crocodiles are used, it could be a threat in densely populated border villages.

Last January, the 32nd Battalion of the BSF seized gold biscuits worth around Rs 1 crore from the India-Bangladesh border in Nadia district, West Bengal. In November 2025, a Bangladeshi smuggler was shot dead by the BSF while trying to cross the border.

BSF sources said that although discussions were held in the Home Ministry, no official decision has been taken. However, it is reported that the officers received instructions from the BSF headquarters on March 26 to find suitable places in case of implementation. Meanwhile, the BSF is strengthening border surveillance using advanced technology, including drones, sensors, cameras and other modern security equipment.