Texas has begun to install 'buoy barrier' to keep illegal migrants from crossing Rio Grande River

The project is starting near Eagle Pass, Texas, which has become one of the most significant hotspots for illegal border crossings in the last year.

By Charlotte Hazard

Published: July 8, 2023 1:03pm

Texas has been working to install a floating barrier along the Rio Grande River in order to stop migrants from crossing into the U.S. illegally.

“The buoys have arrived and the installation of the marine barrier on the Rio Grande begins today,” the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) wrote on Twitter Friday.

The project is starting near Eagle Pass, Texas, which has become one of the most significant hotspots for illegal border crossings in the last year.

The floating barrier can be moved and extended to multiple parts of the river if necessary, according to Texas GOP Gov. Greg Abbott.

The Texas governor is being sued over this action by Eagle Pass resident and kayaking outfitter Jessie F. Fuentes, according to the Houston Chronicle.

Abbott said via Twitter in response to the lawsuit that he would take this to the Supreme Court if necessary.

"Abbott sued over plan to deploy buoys in the Rio Grande," he wrote. "We will see you in court. And don't think the Travis Co. Court will be the end of it. This is going to the Supreme Court. Texas has a constitutional right to secure our border."