From the third week of August to the second week of September, there were at least six landmine explosions in Ye Ta Khon and surrounding areas in Thanbyuzayat Township, Mon State, where fierce fighting continues, making it difficult for local residents to work on their farms.
There have also been repeated landmine explosions in the conflict areas along the border between Mon State and Karen State. This situation has made it difficult for local people to reach their farms, according to local sources.
According to local residents, landmine explosions occur near military junta positions, on public roads, near villages and in areas where local people work, such as farms and forests. This has caused concern among the local population about the danger of landmines.
Due to a lack of knowledge about landmines, the locals are exposed to an increased risk of landmines. A resident of Thanbyuzayat said that landmine awareness programs are becoming necessary for the locals.
“A landmine awareness program is now needed for everyone. The locals don’t know how to avoid these situations. At least the locals should know what safety measures to take when they go to their farms. Although armed groups are laying these mines, it is not them who are affected,” said the local resident.
Even in areas where there were no landmines before, the armed conflicts following the coup have exacerbated the threat of landmines, with local civilians bearing the brunt of the damage.
Prior to the military coup, Mon civil society organizations and the New Mon State Party jointly conducted mine risk education programs. However, these programs were reportedly discontinued after the coup due to restrictions imposed by the military council.
In addition to landmines, people in the current conflict areas are also at risk from unexploded ordnance, according to a person working on the issue of landmines.
“The intensity of armed conflicts is increasing. In addition, conflict areas are moving ever closer to residential areas. In addition to the danger from landmines, people are also threatened by unexploded heavy shells. It would therefore be very helpful if the locals could be trained in these issues,” says the expert.
In Mon State, two people were killed and 20 injured by landmines in August. Bilin, Kyaikto and Thanbyuzayat Townships have the highest risk of landmines.
According to a report by UNICEF Myanmar, there were almost 700 deaths from landmines and explosive devices in the first six months of 2024, 32 percent of which were children.
Sent by IMNA.