CHANDIGARH, Aug. 14 — The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will be inducted into the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) from August 31, ending months of uncertainty and political pushback. The move comes despite a formal resolution by the Punjab Assembly opposing the deployment and the state government’s refusal to share expenses.
BBMB sources confirmed that the decision was finalized during a high-level meeting on Tuesday between a CISF Inspector General and senior board officials. Under the plan, the CISF will first take over security at the Bhakra Dam, replacing Himachal Pradesh Police personnel currently posted there. Himachal and Punjab Police will continue to man their checkpoints along the route to the dam.
The deployment will cost the BBMB over ₹100 crore annually for 296 CISF personnel — nearly triple the amount currently spent on Punjab and Himachal Pradesh Police. Under existing cost-sharing arrangements, Punjab is expected to bear 52% of the cost. However, the state has said it will not contribute, citing both fiscal constraints and its Assembly’s July 4 resolution opposing the move.
According to CISF protocols, the BBMB must bear all operational and logistical expenses, from salaries and allowances to daily provisions such as soap, shaving kits, and transport, as well as arms and ammunition. The CISF has also sought the construction of an exclusive residential colony for its personnel deployed at BBMB sites.
“The financial burden and unilateral decision-making have created tensions among stakeholder states,” a Punjab government official said, adding that the state had withdrawn its consent for CISF induction this year.
BBMB records show the board nonetheless deposited ₹8.5 crore with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on July 25 as deployment charges. The Punjab Government had initially approved CISF deployment in 2021 but reversed its position after a change in administration.
BBMB officials argue that CISF induction will bolster the security of critical infrastructure. Sources indicated that once Bhakra Dam is secured, CISF personnel will gradually be deployed at other BBMB facilities, including Nangal Dam, in the coming months.
However, the sharp rise in costs, Punjab’s refusal to pay, and political opposition could complicate implementation as the August 31 deadline approaches.
