Sri Lankan authorities to speed up de-mining process in the North

Sri Lankan authorities are to speed up the de-mining programme in the Mullaitivu District to facilitate the resettlement of the displaced persons currently remaining in camps.

According to the military approximately 28,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are still living in welfare centers.
Military Spokesperson Major General Ubhaya Medawala told local media today that some 1,800 square kilometers have been cleared of land mines, booby traps and other unexploded explosive devices to date.
He said that some 33,326 land mines and 185,840 anti personnel mines have been uncovered from these areas.
However, it has been reported that of the nearly 1,300 sq. kms in Mullaitivu, only 130 sq. kms have been de-mined.
The Spokesperson has said that the delay is due to the thick jungle areas in the region.
Currently, 1,100 de-mining personnel from the Army Engineers and eight Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are engaged in de-mining activities.