Seminar Seeks to Improve Efficiency of UXO Clearance in Vietnam
	Vietnam Shares Experiences in UXO Clearance

The central province of Quang Binh has been heavily impacted by UXO from past wars. To minimize accidents caused by these dangerous remnants, the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) has effectively implemented risk education, conducted surveys, and carried out the clearance of mines and explosive materials in various localities.

MAG personnel use equipment to clear post-war unexploded ordnance. (Photo: MAG)

Nguyen Van Chien's family, who live in Cu Nam commune, Bo Trach district, near Xuan Son ferry terminal and Ba Trai road, areas that were fiercely bombarded during the war, have continued to live and farm in a dangerous environment due to the numerous UXOs left behind.

Chien shared that in the past, each time they planted trees, he and his wife only dared to lightly till the surface, fearing the ever-present danger of unexploded bombs.

When MAG personnel carried out clearance operations in their area, Chien's family, along with hundreds of other households, felt reassured and could fully utilize the land for production and livestock, yielding high economic value. In particular, in his 4,500 square meter garden, eight cluster bombs were discovered and neutralized, thoroughly clearing the land.

For decades, MAG staff have been present in many areas identified as "bomb craters," using equipment and detectors to locate and neutralize remaining UXOs, making the land safe and returning it to the people for cultivation and habitation.

Nguyen Thanh Ha, Operations Manager of the MAG Quang Binh Project, stated that this UK-based NGO has been operating in Quang Binh since 2003, educating people on the risks of UXOs and carrying out clearance in contaminated areas.

The work is inherently risky, with even the smallest mistake potentially leading to catastrophic consequences. Therefore, during work shifts, staff must be highly focused, always cautious, meticulous, and fully attentive to ensure safety.

After more than 20 years of operation, the MAG project in Quang Binh has successfully detected and destroyed over 147,000 UXOs of various types and conducted 1,755 educational communications to prevent accidents caused by UXOs. The activities of the project have been highly appreciated by the people and local authorities, contributing significantly to reducing the risk of UXO accidents.

Nguyen The Huy, Deputy Director of the Quang Binh Department of Foreign Affairs, stated that MAG's activities have positively contributed to raising public awareness about UXO accidents, significantly reducing such incidents in Quang Binh, and clearing land for socio-economic development, habitation, and production. Provincial leaders, departments, sectors, and localities highly appreciate MAG's support and closely coordinate to implement activities, aiming to build a safe and developed Quang Binh free from UXOs.

During the 2021-2025 period, MAG has continued to implement the project in Quang Binh with funding of over US $16.25 million. With the efforts of MAG, the involvement of the political system and organizations, and local authorities, Quang Binh is expected to address UXO contamination, clear land, and help people feel secure in their living, production, and local economic development.

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