Pentagon authorises fund transfer to build US-Mexico Border Wall

The Pentagon has notified the US Congress that it has authorised the transfer of USD 1 billion to begin building a new wall along the US-Mexico border. This transfer of funds is first under the national emergency declared by President Trump to bypass Congress and build the border wall President Trump had pledged during his 2016 election campaign.

Why President Trump is adamant on US-Mexico Border Wall despite opposition?

US-Mexico Border Wall was on one of the key promises made by President Trump when he was campaigning to become president. With two years into the presidency, President Trump wants to deliver on his promise.
This proposed border wall between US and Mexico is designed to prevent illegal immigrants from entering the US through the porous borders. At present, there is 650 miles of barrier along the border which is 1,900 miles long. Hence President Trump plans to build a 1,000-mile wall made out of steel to prevent people from crossing the US-Mexico border.
Even though he had originally stated that Mexico would be forced to pay for the construction of the wall, the US is now forced to pay for the construction from its own pocket. Mexico has categorically rejected paying for the wall.
The notification by the Pentagon states that USD 1 billion will go toward building nearly 92km of fencing, improving roads and other measures on the southern border.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2019