A senior BSF official stated that areas identified as tunnel-prone are being targeted using scientific methods to detect and neutralize any subterranean threats. The anti-tunnel drive extends up to 400 meters from the border fence, with troops conducting manual checks and employing sophisticated gadgets to ensure thorough surveillance. ([Economic Times](https://m.economictimes.com/news/defence/bsf-launches-intensive-drive-to-detect-possible-cross-border-tunnels-from-pakistan-officials/articleshow/91125304.cms?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
In addition to manual inspections, the BSF has initiated the clearing of wild growth and tilling of land ahead of the barbed wire fence, extending up to the zero line with Pakistan. This process includes digging 4-foot-wide and 10-foot-deep trenches in sectors behind the fence to rule out the possibility of cross-border tunnels. Some trenches are being left open to collect rainwater during the monsoons, serving as a deterrent against tunnel construction. ([Indian Express](https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/border-security-force-anti-tunneling-operation-border-jammu-2814581/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
The BSF has also raised the demand for a sensor network capable of detecting underground tunnels. While Israel has offered such equipment, a decision on its procurement is yet to be made. ([Indian Express](https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/border-security-force-anti-tunneling-operation-border-jammu-2814581/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
These intensified operations follow the detection of a 150-meter-long cross-border tunnel with oxygen pipes in the Samba sector in 2022. The discovery highlighted the persistent threat of underground passages being used for terrorist infiltration. ([The Tribune](https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/j-k/drive-against-cross-border-tunnels-launched-in-samba-kathua-districts-638931/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
In response to these threats, the BSF is conducting extensive anti-tunneling drives, special patrolling, and depth area domination, despite challenging weather conditions. To strengthen border security, the BSF is also collaborating with the Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police through joint patrolling and exercises. ([The Statesman](https://www.thestatesman.com/india/bsf-undertaking-anti-tunneling-drive-pakistan-border-foil-infiltration-terrorists-ahead-republic-day-1503040841.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com))