The Dominican Republic has begun building a wall along its border with Haiti, in efforts to stop irregular migration and smuggling, according to the government.

The wall will cover almost half of the 244 mile (392 kilometer) border, reports Reuters.

President Luis Abinader says the first phase of the project will be done within nine months.

The wall will be topped with metal mesh and have movement sensors, cameras, radars and drones.

The project also includes 70 watchtowers and 41 access gates for patrolling.

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