Major Milestone in Sri Lanka Landmine Removal

Quick Smiles:

• The HALO Trust has cleared its 300,000th landmine in northern Sri Lanka.
• Over 280,000 people have safely returned to their homes.
• 120 square kilometers of land have been made safe and usable again.

Northern Sri Lanka has reached a milestone as The HALO Trust safely removed its 300,000th landmine, making vast areas habitable again. Their efforts have transformed a region the size of Manhattan and brought new beginnings to thousands of survivors of the civil war.

Since the end of the conflict in 2009, The HALO Trust has worked across districts like Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar, and Vavuniya to remove dangerous remnants of war. With steady dedication, the land has been restored for communities to live and farm safely once more.

“Thanks to HALO, over 280,000 former internally displaced persons have now returned safely to their homes and most of the land is clear,” said the trust in a press release.

“HALO and other demining operators continue to work at pace to clear the remaining contaminated areas to fully open up the pristine north of the island to tourists who flock to Sri Lanka every year, netting the country more than $3bn in 2024.”

“These minefields were laid when I was still in primary school. I remember hearing about them in the newspapers,” shared Vithoozen Antony, Operations Manager, HALO Sri Lanka. “Today, I’m proud to be part of the team leading their clearance. Reaching the milestone of 300,000 landmines removed is not just a number; it represents lives saved and land returned to communities.”

The HALO Trust continues its vital work globally, having recently marked the clearance of 550,000 mines and unexploded bombs in Cambodia. Their mission brings hope and safety to communities everywhere.

Let’s celebrate the tireless work of organizations like The HALO Trust, whose commitment restores land and renews hope for families and communities in former conflict areas.

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