BSF cycle rally in Kolkata witnesses enthusiastic support

Kolkata, Aug 12 (AHN) The South Bengal Frontier of the Border Security Force (BSF) organised a 15-km cycle rally in Kolkata on Wednesday to mark International Youth Day.

The rally, which originated from the BSF's South Bengal Frontier headquarters in Rajarhat, was aimed at inspiring the youth towards physical fitness, environmental consciousness and responsible citizenship, officials said.

The participants were flagged off by Daljeet Singh, inspector general, HQ BSF South Bengal Frontier.

"BSF personnel across all ranks participated with great enthusiasm and zeal, reflecting the collective spirit and commitment towards the initiative. The rally swept through Kolkata’s modern hub, tracing a dynamic route from the Frontier Headquarters to the iconic Biswa Bangla Gate in Rajarhat New Town and back," an official said.

The cyclists conveyed motivational messages to the public, particularly the youth, encouraging them to embrace physical fitness, lead a healthy lifestyle, protect the environment and contribute positively towards society, as they passed along the route.

Locals also gathered at various points to witness the cyclists and extended their support and encouragement, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and community participation. The encouraging and enthusiastic response from citizens served as an added source of motivation for the guardians of India's border with Bangladesh.

The South Bengal Frontier of the BSF manages nearly 913 km of the India-Bangladesh Border. Its area of responsibility stretches from the Estuary Point in the Sundarbans to the district of Malda further north.

Troops of the Frontier face several challenges, including dealing with infiltration, smuggling, human trafficking and other cross-border crimes. The terrain proves a major hurdle. Some stretches of the border are riverine and do not allow fencing. There are also stretches that are densely populated, with villages situated right on the international border.

For better connection with the border population, the BSF organises welfare programmes such as health camps, sports events and motivational camps. Youths are also trained to appear for entry tests to the BSF and other Central Armed Police Forces. The BSF also helps villagers during medical emergencies and natural disasters.