Flaws in U.S. Border Security: Grade Control Structure Also Acting as Foot Bridge

For decades, mainland U.S. has hosted millions of illegal immigrants or aliens or those who enter the country without proper legal procedure. In fact, it is estimated that there are over 12 to 20 million illegal immigrants who are now in the U.S. though more accurate figures are still unknown. About 57% of these immigrants are Mexicans themselves trying to find greener pasture in America. This is an indication that there are certainly numerous flaws with regards to border security in the U.S.-Mexico border.

It is quite intriguing that despite of the established electrified fences, barbed wires and security personnel patrolling the border 24/7, there are still a lot of illegal entries that go unnoticed. Illegal immigration is proven to cause a lot of problems for society. First, illegal immigrants compete against legal citizens for available job slots. They may also carry along with them contagious diseases such as Cholera and Tuberculosis. And finally, smuggling of illegal drugs is also attributed to them. Not to mention the high crime rates of cities with higher concentration of illegal immigrants.

The mighty Rio Grande River which separates the U.S. from Mexico serves as a natural barrier in preventing people from crossing opposite sides. Despite of this natural border, the construction of a river structure held it useless. The structure is rumored to be used by immigrants who would like to cross across the river. It could have functioned as a bridge for people to cross and illegally enter the border. As evidence of such claim, frequent sneaker tracks were spotted within the area.

The spokeswoman for the International Boundary and Water Commission, Sally Spener, mentioned that the structure was not made to function as a bridge but as a grade control structure. They help soil erosion caused by water washing off sediments. Grade control structure or not, illegal immigrants have been using it as a reliable platform in crossing the river and conduct their illegal deeds. Various citizens have now petitioned to remove the “bridge” as it will only contribute to more illegal entries within the country. I say they should put border guards to patrol the structure or at least put fences on both ends to repel any person who is trying to cross.

Today, the issue with regards to illegal immigration has really been a hot topic. Various states are now toughening their stance with the passing of anti-illegal immigration policies and laws. Obama’s added funding for border security is also welcome news for legal citizens as it implies the government’s willingness to solve this issue and fight off illegal immigration. By removing numerous flaws in these borders, more illegal entries will be prevented and illegal immigration will be better controlled.

The U.S. Government is Indeed Serious in Strengthening Border Security

The United States of America is indeed widely considered a nation of immigrants. With the continuous admission of numerous people with different races, it is no doubt that the U.S. has become a melting pot for culture and a diversified society. But sadly, with the high number of immigrants who come to the U.S. daily also comes the immigrants who enter illegally. Illegal immigration is a long time problem of America and is just getting worst every year.

The US-Mexico border is such a large border spanning four U.S. states and six Mexican states respectively. It is the most frequently crossed border in the world with an estimated 250 million people crossing the border every year. The problem is, not all crossings are legally documented as some prefer or intend to cross the border illegally. Illegal immigration brings along with it various problems to society. For one, it reduces the value and importance of people who legally achieved their immigration status.

Illegal immigration is also a primary source of crimes and health concerns. Smuggling is a primary concern as illegal drugs can affect the behaviors of society especially for the youth. Another problem is when criminals or drug addicts who illegally enter the U.S. may also commit the same crime and create chaos in any American city. Contagious diseases such as Tuberculosis or Hepatitis may also be carried by illegal immigrants. Since they are not properly screened and documented, they can freely bring along with them any ailment which may affect thousands or even millions of citizens.

Just recently, a border security funding worth over $600 million was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. The funding will help utilize 1,500 new law enforcement agents, purchase several unmanned aerial vehicles or drones which can be used for monitoring the border, establishment of newer forward operating bases and roughly about $14 million for the acquisition of new communications equipment. This is very good news for the American people as the government has finally realized how important it is to secure the border.

Along with this, several anti-illegal immigrations laws have also been established by various U.S. states. With already over 12 million illegal immigrants roaming around mainland U.S., the government’s shift of attention to border security is still somewhat late. Nevertheless, toughening up the border security will significantly reduce illegal crossings and may also significantly reduce crime rates in every American city. It will also prevent any form of human trafficking which is already very rampant nowadays.