India is gearing up to enhance its border security by installing Radiation Detection Equipment (RDE) at eight key land crossing points along its borders with Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal. These RDE installations will play a crucial role in preventing the trafficking of radioactive materials, which could potentially be used in the production of nuclear devices. The RDE units will be stationed at the Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) and land ports located at strategic locations.

The government has already initiated the procurement and installation of the RDE at these border crossings, with the work order being awarded to a vendor through an agreement executed last year. The vendor is expected to swiftly supply and complete the installation process at these designated sites.

The primary objective behind this endeavour is to bolster security measures and curb the illegal transport of radioactive materials across international borders. The eight selected ICPs have a substantial volume of cross-border movements involving people and goods, making them susceptible to potential smuggling activities.

The smuggling of radioactive materials poses a significant challenge to India's security agencies, as these materials could be exploited in the development of nuclear devices or radiological dispersal devices, according to a government official.

The RDE units will be installed in drive-through monitoring stations designed to inspect trucks and their cargo efficiently. Although the Attari ICP has seen a considerable decrease in the movement of people and goods due to strained relations with Pakistan, other ICP continue to witness significant foot traffic. Consequently, these RDE units will serve as valuable tools for monitoring cross-border cargo movements.

These advanced RDE systems come equipped with the capability to raise separate alarms for gamma and neutron radiation and capture video frames of suspected objects. Additionally, they can distinguish between special nuclear material and naturally occurring radiation found in fertilizers or ceramics, as well as high-energy gamma isotopes, which are characteristic of recycled uranium.

To ensure the successful implementation of this crucial security measure the Indian government has sought technical assistance from various foreign agencies, including those from the United States. This collaborative effort underscores India's commitment to bolstering border security and safeguarding against potential threats related to radioactive materials.

Image source: Times of India