Mines Advisory Group (MAG) emergency appeal to help protect Afghan refugees from the impact of landmines
Mines Advisory Group, September 2001

Prior to the current crisis, the impact of landmines was well-documented in Afghanistan. MAG conducted the first national survey of landmine impact in Afghanistan in 1989-90. The landmine problem also affects neighbouring states - this will affect refugees today.

The situation is still developing in and around Afghanistan. The country's human capacity in Mine Action is now dispersed and in some cases displaced. As thousands upon thousands of refugees stream out of Afghanistan towards neighbouring states, they are running the risk of awful mine accidents. As pressure on limited food and water, shelter and other resources increases, experience tells us that populations will become more and more vulnerable to landmines and UXO (unexploded munitions).

MAG has worked together with Afghanistan and Pakistan-based Mine Action agencies over the years since its first intervention. Since 1999, MAG has been collaborating with Humanitarian Survival and Development (HSD), a Pakistan-national mine action NGO based in Peshawar. Before the current crisis began, MAG and HSD had been preparing an assessment mission of the mines problem that affects parts of the tribal areas in Northern Pakistan.

All the refugee camps being established in Pakistan are within these areas. This gives rise to even greater urgency. Together with HSD, MAG wishes to implement a rapid assistance programme from bases already set up in the area. Refugees need information as to where they can safely get water, wood, and other urgent facilities, without the risk of landmines.

10 camps are reported to be established with 10,000 to 20,000 refugees in each. Actual numbers remain unclear, but we believe that approximately 1000 persons are arriving every day. More refugees are reported to be staying in the mountains fearing forced repatriation.

There is a need for urgent mine awareness and emergency response. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees backs this assessment. 4 mine awareness officers, one team leader and a medic are already in the area with our partner HSD. MAG is requested to urgently provide more technical help and back-up and is urgently seeking funds to support this work.

MAG is committed to helping and is keen to work together with all partners to minimise the risk to refugee and local populations.MAG will continue to assess the needs and responde as appropriate as the situation developes.

Please help us to protect the Afghan refugees and support the population of Pakistan by giving generously, as much as you can afford.

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Copyright © 2001 Mines Advisory Group. All rights reserved.