Landmines are a serious hazard in tribal areas of Pakistan. When the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) started returning to their homes in 2017 after a series of military operations in the tribal areas — they found their villages and areas surrounding their houses littered with deadly landmines. These landmines cost many locals their lives and limbs, including children. The situation becomes more dangerous when it rains, as landmines float into residential areas.
Things are worse in South Waziristan because of its hilly terrain. Abandoned explosive materials are said to be present in Ladha and Sarwaiki tehsils of South Waziristan, which are home to the Mehsud tribe. Kurram Agency, Tirah valley of Khyber Agency and border regions of both Mohmand and Kurram Agencies are similarly affected. Though military operations have cleared militants from these areas, leftover landmines and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) continue to pose a threat to the local population.
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Source: Daily Times