New dangers loom in devastated Gaza

A large number of unexploded bombs have become a new threat to people returning to Gaza after the ceasefire. Experts have warned that these explosives could cause a terrible disaster at any moment. To deal with the situation, they have called for Gaza city to be cleared of mines and explosives on a priority basis.
According to the international news agency AFP, the non-governmental organization Handicap International has warned that ordinary citizens in Gaza are now at serious risk. According to the organization, about 70,000 tons of explosives were dropped on Gaza during the war.
Anne-Claire Yesh, director of the international organization experienced in the removal of mines and unexploded weapons, said that the terrible destruction that has occurred in Gaza has resulted in layer upon layer of rubble. This is combined with environmental complications that make the situation even more dangerous.
The United Nations Mine Action Service said in a report published in January that 5 to 10 percent of the total explosives dropped in Gaza have not yet exploded. The agency said that due to the two-year blockade, its delegation has not yet been able to enter Gaza and conduct a large-scale survey. As a result, it has not been possible to determine the exact amount of unexploded ordnance.
UNMA said that its main focus in the coming days will be on debris removal so that safe rescue and reconstruction work can proceed. In particular, emphasis will be placed on the rapid removal of debris along the roads along which thousands of displaced people are returning home.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said that there is a risk of explosive devices on key roads. Limited security checks are being carried out due to the small number of armored vehicles.
Other relevant UN agencies, on the other hand, said that they have not yet received permission from the Israeli authorities to allow unexploded ordnance clearance equipment into Gaza.
UNMA said that three of its armored vehicles are waiting at the Gaza border. Once permission is received, a large-scale safe clearance operation will begin.
Meanwhile, the United Nations Development Programme has said that $70 billion will be needed to rebuild Gaza. Two years of war have already left behind some 55 million tonnes of rubble, the removal of which is now the biggest challenge in rebuilding Gaza.
Source: Urdu News