Sri Lanka’s mine-clearance programme has been highly successful, according to internationally renowned Hollywood actress and International Mine-Clearance Ambassador Rosamund Pike.
Pike made the remarks during a meeting with Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Dr. Susil Ranasinghe.
During the meeting, she commended Sri Lanka’s mine-clearance efforts, noting that operations are being carried out in accordance with international standards.
Officials said approximately 90% of the areas previously affected by landmines have now been successfully cleared.
The remaining 20.8 square kilometres are located in particularly challenging and complex terrain, making the clearance process more difficult.
Sri Lanka is aiming to be declared completely free of landmines within the next four years.
As part of the ongoing effort, 500 specially trained Sri Lanka Army personnel are being deployed for mine-clearance operations.
Minister Ranasinghe said that, in addition to the work carried out by other sectors, the Army has set a target of clearing 1.5 square kilometres of land annually.
The government has also doubled the funds allocated for mine-clearance activities compared with the previous year, according to officials.
