Since the beginning of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, pyrotechnic teams from Ukraine’s State Emergency Service have been working tirelessly to detect and dispose of explosive ordnance. As of October 4, they have cleared over 533,200 pieces of explosives and around 148,858 hectares of territory. In the past 24 hours alone, they responded to 173 calls and disposed of 293 explosives, including two air bombs. The regions that have required the most pyrotechnic deployment include Kharkiv, Kherson, Donetsk, Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Sumy. The public is urged to report any suspicious objects by calling 101 to avoid potential dangers.
Furthermore, Ukraine remains the most mined country in the world, with approximately 174,000 square kilometers of Ukrainian land contaminated with explosives since 2022. The country’s Defense Ministry specialists have cleared 30,000 square kilometers of mines over the past two years, which is equivalent to the size of Belgium or Moldova. This ongoing threat of explosives poses a significant danger to the population, with 144,000 square kilometers still potentially dangerous. It is crucial for the authorities to continue their efforts in clearing these areas to ensure the safety of civilians.
In the midst of this crisis, civilians in front-line cities like Selydove, Donetsk Oblast, face imminent danger and uncertainty. Evacuation operations are critical in such areas, with volunteers trying to make visual contact with civilians to ensure their safety. The situation remains perilous, with strong winds and constant threats from ongoing conflict making the evacuation process challenging. The need for swift and effective action to protect civilians in these areas is paramount as they remain frozen in inaction, caught in the crossfire of the conflict.
The resilience and dedication of the pyrotechnic teams and Defense Ministry specialists in Ukraine are commendable, as they work tirelessly to clear landmines and explosive ordnance to protect the population. The scale of the task at hand is immense, with vast areas of Ukrainian land still deemed risky due to contamination with explosives. The ongoing efforts to clear these areas demonstrate the commitment of the authorities to ensuring the safety and security of civilians in a volatile and dangerous environment. The cooperation of the public in reporting suspicious objects is vital in preventing potential disasters and minimizing risks.
The impact of Russia’s invasion on Ukraine goes beyond the immediate conflict, with long-lasting repercussions for the safety and well-being of the population. The threat of explosives and landmines adds another layer of complexity to an already dire situation, requiring comprehensive and sustained efforts to address the issue. The ongoing work of pyrotechnic teams, Defense Ministry specialists, and volunteers in front-line cities reflects the collective resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people to overcome these challenges and rebuild their communities. The international community’s support and solidarity are crucial in aiding Ukraine in its efforts to ensure the safety and security of its citizens during this turbulent period.
