Myanmar is prone to severe weather conditions during the rainy season, which can increase the vulnerability of communities residing in conflict-affected areas as they face a higher risk of exposure to explosive hazards. Explosive devices get washed to different locations amid heavy rain, flooding and landslides.
In May of this year, Cyclone Mocha hit the western part of Myanmar, causing severe damage in the central and northern parts of Rakhine State. “The communities need to be on constant alert since the cyclone as explosive devices may have become uncovered or shifted to unexpected places,” said Hla Maung Thein, Weapon Contamination Field Officer from ICRC’s Sittwe subdelegation.
To mitigate the risks associated with explosive devices, the ICRC team in Rakhine has been conducting sessions on Risk Awareness and Safer Behaviour (RASB) in villages and sites for displaced people in Ponnagyun, Kyauktaw, Mrauk Oo, Myaung Bway and Rathedaung townships.
We are currently carrying out risk awareness sessions together with the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS). We are also planning to work with civil society organizations that can access rural areas with high contamination. We will build their capacity and provide them with ongoing support.
Hla Maung Thein
Weapon Contamination Field Officer from ICRC’s Sittwe subdelegation
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