Smart Wall

In News: Recently, the USA has stopped the construction of the “border wall” between the USA and Mexico.

• However, as an alternative, a ‘smart wall’ will replace the physical wall with advanced surveillance technology for border security.

Features of the Wall

• The wall would use sensors, radars and surveillance technology to detect and track border break-ins and technology capable of performing the most difficult tasks dedicated to border security.
• Mobile surveillance towers are deployed along with a complete system radar satellites, computer-equipped border-control vehicles, control sensors and underground sensors.
• Also, thermal imaging would be used, which would help in the detection of objects.
• The system would be capable of distinguishing between animals, humans and vehicles, and sending related updates to handheld mobile devices.
• Artificial intelligence is used at a novel scale to complement the steel barrier (border wall).

Benefits

• In the USA’s context, cost-effectiveness, less damage to the environment, fewer land seizures, and speedier deployment give these walls an edge over traditional physical borders.
• Smart walls make use of systems that would be designed in such a way that they can operate even in rugged areas.
  • Erecting physical fences, walls or any physical structures is extremely difficult in rugged terrain.
• These walls could solve border security issues without the need for a physical barrier.

Smart Walls for Indian Borders

• India faces the problem of infiltration by the terrorists and the smugglers through the borders.
• Significance:
  • The terrain in the border region is rugged so using smart walls can be considered due to its easy deployment.
  • It is imperative for Indian armed forces to be well-equipped and simultaneously have the latest technological advantage.
  • It falls in line with the goal of Digital India and using such kind of smart technology will help India secure its borders.
• Concerns:
  • Indian border is not clearly defined at a few points so it will be hard to find an exact location for the deployment of the walls.
  • Such a system might not be feasible for India’s long boundaries.
• Suggestions:
  • It can be deployed to enhance critical security establishments and complement the already-existing physical fencing and walls.
  • Experts must explore this idea to effectively counter the problem of cross-border infiltration.

Source: TH