Non-Profit Clears 300,000 Landmines in Sri Lanka, Rehabilitates Homes for Over 280,000 Inhabitants
In an extraordinary accomplishment for worldwide peace initiatives, The HALO Trust, a British non-profit organization, has declared the removal of its 300,000th landmine from Sri Lanka. These explosive remnants from a lengthy civil conflict have historically presented significant hazards, displacing more than 280,000 Sri Lankans from their residences.
After the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war in 2009, over 1.5 million landmines remained dispersed mostly throughout the afflicted northern and eastern regions. The constant peril of these hidden explosives triggered a large exodus of civilians searching for safer habitats. Through dedicated and precise efforts over two decades, The HALO Trust has effectively made almost 30,000 acres of land safe and free from landmines.
Subramaniyam Muralithran, the government representative of the heavily landmine-affected Kilinochchi District, conveyed appreciation and hope regarding this achievement: “The clearance of 300,000 targets in mine clearance work is very uplifting news for our community. This milestone is crucial for resettlement, resource recovery, and the revitalizing return to a peaceful existence. It fosters confidence in rejuvenating the natural environment of the previously mined areas.”
With these areas now secure, displaced individuals can return to their homes, and the region can pursue revitalization through tourism. Sri Lanka stands to gain economically, harnessing its profitable $3 billion annual tourism sector. Notably, Jaffna, a city embellished with a 400-year-old fort featuring intricate carvings and golden domes, is among the many sites that can once more attract visitors.
The achievement highlights the essential work of The HALO Trust’s team of over 1,200 locally hired specialists committed to landmine elimination. Their efforts bring Sri Lanka closer to its goal of being entirely landmine-free by 2028.
The HALO Trust’s landmark removal of 300,000 landmines significantly propels efforts to restore safety and normalcy for the displaced populace of Sri Lanka.
Source: [300,000 landmines cleared in Sri Lanka.](https://www.halotrust.org/news/300-000-landmines-cleared-in-sri-lanka/)
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