Winter Alert on LoC: BSF Tightens Grid, Aims Zero Infiltration

Suhail Khan

Srinagar, Dec 27: As the New Year approaches, Border Security Force (BSF) troops are conducting relentless foot patrols through deep snow and treacherous high-altitude terrain along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kashmir, maintaining an unwavering defensive posture.

This heightened vigilance follows intelligence reports indicating increased infiltration attempts in recent weeks across various sectors of the Kashmir frontier.

A senior BSF official, speaking to Kashmir Convener, confirmed that personnel are sustaining a “zero infiltration” regime through round-the-clock deployment, despite severe winter conditions.

“Our troops are fully prepared to counter any threat,” the official stated, emphasizing the force’s resolve. “The extreme weather is a formidable adversary, but our operational readiness remains uncompromised. We extend our New Year wishes to the nation with the assurance that our borders are secure.”

Another senior BSF official told Kashmir Convener that the punishing winter environment brings significant risks, including snow blindness, frostbite, and severely limited mobility. Nevertheless, BSF patrols—equipped with thermal imagers, night-vision devices, and advanced surveillance systems—maintain constant high-alert monitoring of the snow-blanketed landscape, even in pitch darkness and sub-zero temperatures.

“We wish to assure the people in advance that all borders in Kashmir are secure and our jawans are alert to tackle any challenge,” the official said.

Complementing the frontline LoC deployment, specialized BSF ‘Black Commando’ units are conducting intensive search-and-combing operations in dense, forested border zones. These operations, driven by specific intelligence regarding suspicious movements, highlight a sophisticated level of coordination and preparedness in counter-insurgency efforts, the official added.

The BSF’s security footprint has also been visibly strengthened at popular tourist destinations such as Gulmarg and Botapathri, a measure that has significantly bolstered visitor confidence.

“Seeing the BSF personnel here is very reassuring,” remarked one tourist. “It allows us to enjoy the breathtaking scenery with a greater sense of safety.” This comprehensive approach is further evidenced by precautionary searches conducted by specialist units in adjoining forested areas.

The ongoing winter vigil builds upon a year of notable achievements in border security. BSF officials confirm that the force neutralized eight terrorists in four separate infiltration attempts along the 343-kilometre Kashmir LoC in 2025.

These successful interceptions are attributed to what officials term “sustained domination” of forward areas, enhanced technological surveillance, and seamless operational synergy with the Indian Army.

Earlier this year, Inspector General of BSF Frontier Kashmir, Ashok Yadav, detailed how persistent vigilance and intelligence-led operations have drastically curtailed cross-border infiltration attempts. He specifically lauded the contributions of the BSF’s G Branch intelligence wing.

“Timely and precise intelligence from our G Branch has been a game-changer,” IG Yadav stated during a press conference. “It has enabled our troops to pre-emptively counter infiltration bids and recover substantial caches of arms and ammunition, thereby thwarting potential threats before they could materialize.”

Notably, from the frozen peaks of the Line of Control to the bustling tourist trails of the Kashmir Valley, the Border Security Force is ever-present. It safeguards the nation’s borders and protects the people, complementing the vigilance of the Indian Army in countering every threat to peace. The Force stands prepared to deliver a decisive response, as exemplified by operations such as Operation Sarp Vinash.”