Is BSF’s idea to have reptiles in the water along Bangladesh border sound?
The Sundarbans is already home to saltwater crocodiles and snake species such as cobras, Russell’s vipers and kraits.
| Photo Credit: SHAILENDRA YASHWANT/KSL
The Border Security Force (BSF) has come up with a curious idea to prevent infiltration from Bangladesh: releasing reptiles into the rivers that run along the border, The Hindu reported on April 6.
“Snakes or crocodiles” introduced in vulnerable riverine gaps should be explored for feasibility, per a directive to the BSF on March 26. The reptiles could deter infiltration and criminal activities in the riverine border, according to an internal communiqué seen by The Hindu.
What do conservationists and scientists make of this unprecedented proposal? And are there precedents anywhere in the world?
Published – April 09, 2026 11:42 am IST
