Demining of cluster bombs starts at Mundri town

By John Actually

August 29, 2008 (MUNDRI TOWN) — Norwegian Peoples Aid (NPA) started demining action in Mundri county since 6/6/2008 to set the local population free from the dangers

The NPA is working in southern Sudan since 1986, its programme has four main components: Food Security & Rural Livelihoods , Humanitarian Mine Action , Health & Medical Training and Development Programme.

The company is focusing on cluster bombs dropped by the Northern army forces during the war time.

Mundri had been one of the war devastated areas that was under heavy air craft bombardment by the NIF forces. At least more than 200 peoples had lost their lives during that time as Sudan tribune had learnt.

As heralded from NPA survey, Mundri town centre and outside it has a lot of unexploded ordinances from the cluster bombs that made lives difficult to citizens.

“NPA, which was alleged to have good records in demining activities was given a contract to demolish the cluster bombs in the area”, the Team leader said. But he declined to mention the duration of their contract.

Latio David, the team leader of the battle clearance, told Sudan tribune that his group had encountered a lot of Pmi, Uxos and other mortar bombs. “We demolished about 5 to 6 bombs per day” Mr Latio added.

David said that his company has deployed effective machines like deep locators to detect underground bombs in the battle area.

“The test is done before the bomb is actuated to see if it contains poisoning elements”, he said.

They have chosen electrical demolition at the situ to suit their program.

The commissioner of the area, Bulen Abiatara had given the deminers good security and freedom to carry out clearance without any constraints.

(ST)