The Pakistan Army is advancing its crucial efforts to neutralize explosives and landmines left behind by militants across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tribal regions, a key initiative to safeguard civilian lives, restore normalcy, and secure previously terror-contaminated areas.
During the War on Terror, militants extensively planted landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) throughout tribal districts to disrupt security operations and endanger both security forces and local communities. Following successful counterterrorism operations, the Pakistan Army has launched comprehensive demining campaigns to remove these threats and reclaim affected areas.
Brave Pakistani soldiers are risking their lives daily to locate, defuse, and safely remove explosive devices, ensuring the safety of civilians and restoring accessibility to previously dangerous zones. These operations have revealed that, of the 114 square kilometers initially identified as heavily contaminated, 82 square kilometers have now been completely cleared. The cleared zones include explosives planted by militants as well as devices installed due to local personal disputes, highlighting the complexity of the operation.
Many of the explosives, including IEDs, were deliberately designed to target Pakistani security personnel. Clearing these devices is painstakingly slow and highly dangerous—sometimes even one kilometer of clearance requires extended hours of careful, methodical work.
The Army’s efforts have come at a significant cost. Five soldiers have been martyred, while 115 personnel have sustained life-altering injuries, including the loss of limbs, in the line of duty. These sacrifices underscore the courage and dedication of Pakistan’s armed forces in ensuring regional safety.
In addition to explosives, large quantities of ammunition have been recovered from militant-held areas, some of which were placed dangerously close to civilian settlements. Authorities warn that children and youth remain at risk, as they may inadvertently come into contact with unexploded devices.
Tragic incidents continue to serve as a stark reminder of the lingering danger. On 26 November in Janat Shah village, Tehsil Khar, Bajaur, two young individuals lost their lives after coming into contact with explosives left by militants. Similar accidents have previously occurred in Bajaur, Lakki Marwat, and other districts.
Authorities and the Pakistan Army urge local residents in uncleared areas to exercise extreme caution until the completion of demining operations.
The Pakistan Army remains unwavering in its commitment to eliminating all explosive threats in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tribal areas, demonstrating extraordinary courage and resilience to protect civilian lives and restore lasting peace to the region.
