But please tell me why fencing the border won't be a better option than simply patrolling. I believe fencing + patrolling + constant surveillance (in the form of CCTV on fences and maybe UAV) would be an all-round idea, if we can afford the resources.
Fencing assumes one important ting, you have a defined border. This you do not have as there is no agreement between Afghanistan and Pakistan on the border line.
Ok you can fence some sections but that may be a time consuming exercise going on past experiences with your fence.
First patrols are deliberately taking away the initiative from the enemy, hence the need for random tracking in the patrols. Also just a straight fence will require as you point out some form of CCTV sensors etc. This also means a single path and a somewhat simplistic patrol process. You must now station troops in static points and assume they patrol properly, which they won’t. A fence also limits your movement something you do not want in this type of situation. You need flexibility of movement, ie come from anywhere and nowhere.
Constant patrols along the vague border will cause the enemy to concentrate forces so they can move with freedom, also they will try to concentrate to attack patrols hence these patrols must be at lest company size and supported with arty and air.
There are two types of patrol to use, one that is obvious, ie always visits villages and brings medical assistance to the people. Also at the same time there should be the patrol out side the obvious. Seldom returning and out for extended periods. THAT means does not come home at night. In fact neither patrol should dash out during te day and return that night. In fact night patrols are also a big must.
Ok the terrain is not what one calls sweet. It sucks so make it work for you not them.
Deny, deny is the call, not ‘I want to go home’ each night.
This is something not done so far and will require a mix of FC and PA troops in a coy plus size, no separation, min about 2 FC and 2 PA platoons with sect mors and DS arty. Also stand by air support
Use Drones but as a wide screen so they do not give away the intended patrol path
edit:
All I am saying is nothing more than what we did in Vietnam; we owned our province not the VC.