Azerbaijan Emergency Ministry aids in demining operations in Aghdam's village

Mine clearance operations are currently being conducted in Khachindarband village of Aghdam district, according to Alakber Alakbarov, an official with the Special Risk Rescue Service of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES).

Speaking to Report from the site, Alakbarov said that alongside other organisations involved in clearing mines from territories liberated after the Patriotic War, the Ministry’s Special Forces Unit is also actively participating in the demining efforts, Caliber.Az reports.

“Our personnel began demining activities after completing mandatory training courses and obtaining certification,” he noted.

Alakbarov also highlighted the technical capabilities supporting their work, touching on the Service's technical support in demining.

"We are assisted by cynologists and dogs specially trained in demining. We have also purchased mechanical demining equipment, which plays a very important role in the realisation of the relevant tasks. At the moment we are in Khachindarband village of Aghdam district, where demining works continue," he stated. 

Azerbaijan continues to grapple with the deadly legacy of a 30-year conflict and occupation by Armenia, which left an estimated 12 per cent of the country’s territory contaminated with around 1.5 million landmines and vast amounts of unexploded ordnance (UXOs). This makes Azerbaijan one of the most heavily mine-affected nations in the world.

By Sabina Mammadli