MHA rolls out border safety overhaul in J&K with sirens, smart bunkers

In a significant move to bolster civilian protection along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has rolled out an ambitious border safety modernisation programme in Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative, aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and civilian resilience, includes the installation of automated public warning sirens, construction of smart bunkers, and deployment of AI-based surveillance systems.
Spearheaded by the MHA, the programme is part of a broader strategy to integrate global best practices in conflict-zone safety and disaster response.
“High-risk villages in border districts will be equipped with automated sirens to alert residents of cross-border shelling or natural calamities. Smart bunkers powered by solar energy and equipped with first-aid kits and essential supplies will offer extended shelter during emergencies,” a senior MHA official privy to the proposal told Rising Kashmir.
He said other measures include drone and AI-powered surveillance for real-time threat detection and alerts. “MHA also plans community-level training on evacuation, first aid and emergency protocols in coordination with NDMA,” the official said.
He said that more than 120 villages in districts like Poonch, Rajouri, Samba, Baramulla and Kupwara have been prioritised for the first phase, with full rollout targeted by early 2026.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, recently reviewed the measures to be taken for the safety of border residents of J&K. “The safety and dignity of every citizen living near the borders is a top priority. We are investing in smart technologies and global best practices to ensure no life is lost due to lack of infrastructure or preparedness.”
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who recently reviewed the preparedness along border areas, described the automated warning system as “a game-changer.” He said: “For the first time, our border villagers are being equipped with real-time alerts and global-standard safety systems. This is not just about protection, but about restoring dignity and confidence to our frontline communities.”
Sources in the MHA said that the initiative is also drawing inspiration from successful models in countries like Israel and South Korea, where communities near conflict zones have been safeguarded through integrated tech-based systems. Officials describe the plan as not just a safety upgrade, but a confidence-building measure for thousands living under constant threat, signalling a strong shift from reactive to proactive protection.
The J&K’s border residents recently suffered immense damage due to the intense shelling from across. Jammu’s Poonch and north Kashmir’s Baramulla and Kupwara district bore the brunt. Hundreds of houses were damaged in the shelling forcing people of border belts of J&K to migrate to shelter homes and safer locations. Many human lives were lost as well in the intense shelling from May 7 to May 10. Presently, the J & K government is conducting a damage assessment after which a detailed report will be submitted to the Government of India for the rehabilitation of affected border residents.