Govt to modernise BGB to boost border security: Home minister

The government has decided to strengthen the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) by expanding its manpower and equipping the force with modern technology, vehicles, weapons and other equipment to enhance border security.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced the move while speaking to reporters after visiting the BGB headquarters at Pilkhana in Dhaka on Monday (July 20). It was his first visit to the headquarters since assuming office.

During the visit, the minister reviewed the force’s overall operations, manpower, battalion and sector capabilities, and future requirements.

He said enhancing the BGB’s operational capacity is essential for more effective border protection.

The government plans to increase the use of advanced surveillance technology to improve monitoring, accelerate information gathering and enable faster responses to security threats.

The minister also said the government would strengthen the BGB’s role in combating drug smuggling along the border.

Until new canine units are developed under the proposed Narcotics Control Act, the force’s existing dog squad will be used in anti-drug operations.

Salahuddin Ahmed said the government has taken policy decisions to procure new vehicles, modern equipment and weapons for the BGB.

He also said the force’s role in “Aid to Civil Power” operations would be further strengthened.

Praising the BGB’s rescue and relief efforts during the recent floods, he said the force earned nationwide appreciation for delivering relief by boat to remote areas and conducting rescue operations.

The minister also highlighted plans to improve the BGB’s administrative infrastructure, upgrade its hospital facilities and recruit more doctors and nurses.

He said the projects are awaiting approval from the relevant ministries and would be implemented on a priority basis.

The government believes that increasing manpower, adopting advanced technology and supplying modern equipment will significantly enhance the BGB’s ability to protect the country’s borders, curb cross-border crime and respond to emergencies.