BSF Explores Crocodiles & Snakes to Secure Unfenced Bangladesh Border
Echoes of Ancient ‘Living Moats’
This idea revives a page from India’s own history of ingenious fortifications. Medieval Indian rulers often enhanced defensive moats (wide, deep trenches, also called khandak or fosse in historical texts) with water and dangerous wildlife to create formidable barriers.
Agra Fort (Mughal era): The outer wet moat surrounding this iconic red sandstone citadel was historically stocked with crocodiles. Invaders attempting to cross faced not only water but also these apex predators.
Feasibility Study & Challenges
BSF officials stress that the reptile proposal remains at the exploratory stage and has not been implemented. Key issues under assessment include:
- Confining reptiles to designated zones
- Safety for local fishing communities and BSF jawans
- Potential ecological impact on river systems
- Sourcing and sustaining viable populations
Environmental groups and residents on both sides of the border have voiced concerns about unintended consequences for biodiversity and human safety.Supporters, however, view it as a creative, low-maintenance solution rooted in India’s martial traditions — using nature itself where modern infrastructure faces limitations.