A recent study conducted by the Head of Coordination and Mine Clearance in Afghanistan has unveiled a grim reality: 120 individuals have tragically lost their lives, and another 250 have sustained injuries as a result of mine explosions and encounters with unexploded ordnance within Afghanistan. This sobering report was brought to light by The Khaama Press on Monday, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive action plan to mitigate the devastating impact of these lethal hazards.
Nooruddin Rustamkhil, the head of coordination and Mine clearance, emphasized that a significant portion of these victims are children. He stated, "From the beginning of 2023 until now, we have had 207 incidents in Afghanistan, resulting in 372 casualties. Among these, 122 lost their lives, 250 were wounded, and a heartbreaking 224 were children."
Additionally, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has expressed deep concern over the escalating number of casualties among children due to explosions caused by unexploded ordnance in Afghanistan. In 2022 alone, over a hundred children either lost their lives or were left with permanent disabilities due to these tragic incidents.
Despite ongoing efforts, Afghanistan continues to grapple with a persistent threat to its citizens, especially innocent children, from unexploded mine explosions. This dire situation underscores the critical need for unwavering international support and resources to address this pressing humanitarian crisis.
The looming danger of unexploded mines persists in certain regions of the country, serving as a somber reminder of past conflicts and the lack of awareness surrounding these deadly remnants. To safeguard the lives of Afghan citizens, it is imperative that concerted action is taken to clear these hazards and raise awareness about their perilous presence.