UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations has warned that landmines and unexploded ordnance in Afghanistan have become a serious and deadly threat to civilians, raising concerns that the Taliban government’s claims of clearing explosive remnants have largely failed in practice.
According to a latest report by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), Afghanistan now ranks third among countries with the highest number of landmine victims worldwide.
The report highlights that nearly 80 percent of those affected are children, who often fall victim while playing or carrying out routine daily activities.
UNAMA stated that more than 3.3 million Afghans are currently living in areas contaminated with landmines and unexploded explosives, putting their lives and property at constant risk.
The United Nations Mine Action Service reported that 471 landmine-related explosions were recorded last year alone, affecting 314 children. These incidents underscore the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by decades of conflict and the continued presence of explosive hazards across the country.
Security experts have criticized the Taliban administration for prioritizing other matters over civilian safety, resulting in minimal progress in mine clearance efforts. Analysts say the situation reflects administrative failure and negligence, with innocent Afghan civilians, especially children, paying the heaviest price.
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