One Million Still at Risk From Landmines in Cambodia
CISR
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(Khmer Times) Cambodia remains one of the world's most mine-affected nations, with 1,700 square kilometers still at risk, affecting nearly one million people. Since 1992, demining efforts have cleared over 3,000 square kilometers of land contaminated by landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO), but a large portion remains to be addressed. Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized the continued danger, recounting recent accidents in Preah Vihear and other provinces. Although accident rates have dropped significantly since the 1990s, demining authorities, including the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), stress the need for further clearance.
They are focused on identifying areas with unexploded bombs and cluster munitions, particularly from aerial bombardments during past conflicts. CMAC also appeals to local communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious ordnance to authorities. Despite extensive clearance efforts, more demining will be needed beyond 2025 due to the complexity of the remaining contaminated areas.
