Trump reactivates the construction of the wall on the U.S.-Mexico border.

The U.S. government has taken a new step in the militarization of the border with Mexico by announcing the reactivation of the construction of the border fence. A move that could change the dynamics for thousands of migrants attempting to cross into the country.

The first contract for this new phase of the fence was awarded to Granite Construction Co. for a total of $70.2 million to close gaps in the border fence in Hidalgo County, Texas.

These areas had been left open after contracts were suspended during the Biden administration, but now the Donald Trump administration has decided to resume them with funds from the fiscal year 2021 budget.

How will this affect migrants attempting to cross?

This section of the fence will be built in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) sector, one of the areas with the highest migratory flows and where most migrant detentions are recorded.

The new barrier is intended to prevent irregular crossings and curb the activities of cartels operating along the border.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) assured that this action responds to the executive orders signed by Trump entitled "Securing Our Borders" and "Declaring a National Emergency at the Southern Border of the United States", in which he orders to accelerate the construction of physical barriers to achieve total control of the border.

More controls and obstacles for migrants

With the reactivation of the construction of the wall, authorities are expected to reinforce surveillance and the deployment of border agents.

This could result in an increase in operations, detentions and deportations, making it even more difficult for those seeking to enter the United States without documents.

Crossings in the Rio Grande Valley have historically been dangerous, as migrants must cross the Rio Grande River, desert areas, and face human smugglers.

With the reactivation of the wall, the routes will become more complicated and the risk of accidents and fatalities could increase. This has already happened in other areas where new barriers have been installed.

What options are left for migrants?

The tightening of border measures forces migrants to seek legal alternatives to enter the United States. In this context, the safest routes include:

• Asylum applications under the CBP One program.
• Family petitions if they have family members with residency or citizenship.
• Humanitarian programs and temporary work visas, if eligible.

However, the immigration crisis and cuts in protection programs have reduced opportunities for many, leaving thousands of people in immigration limbo.

The wall moves forward and restrictions increase

The Trump administration has made it clear that the southern border is a priority. Also that building the wall is only the first step in a broader plan to tighten immigration controls.

For migrants still planning to cross, this announcement changes the rules of the game. Making access to the United States more difficult, more dangerous, and with greater consequences if they are apprehended.