For decades, Cambodia has been grappling with the deadly legacy of war: millions of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) scattered across the country. This explosive debris is a direct result of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, that ravaged the region. These remnants pose a significant threat to civilians, especially in rural areas, hindering agricultural activities and development.
The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) and other organizations are working tirelessly to locate and destroy these explosives. The process is painstaking, requiring specialized equipment, trained deminers, and extensive surveys to map contaminated areas. Despite significant progress, the scale of the problem remains immense.
Landmines and UXO not only cause injuries and fatalities but also impede economic growth by making land unusable for farming and infrastructure development. The presence of these explosives discourages investment and limits access to essential resources.
International assistance plays a vital role in supporting Cambodia's demining efforts. Funding, technology, and training are essential to accelerate the clearance process and protect communities from the dangers of landmines. Cambodia's commitment to becoming mine-free is a testament to its resilience and determination to build a safer future for its people.
Cambodia Works to Clear Landmines Decades After Conflict
Cambodia continues its efforts to remove millions of landmines and unexploded bombs left behind from past wars. These dangerous remnants pose a serious threat to communities and hinder development. Clearing these explosives is a slow and costly process, requiring specialized equipment and trained personnel. International support is crucial to help Cambodia achieve its goal of becoming mine-free and creating safer living conditions for its citizens.
Source: Read the original article at CBS