Members of the center 294 'Leader' for high risk rescue operations of
the Emergencies Ministry have started mine clearing in the Grozny
region, Chechnya, RIA Novosti reports, citing the information
department of the Russian Emergencies Ministry.
Engineers have covered 4 500 sq m and have already discovered two
explosive devices, a spokesman for the center said.
Chechnya still needs mines cleared in over 16 000 ha, including 6 000
ha of agricultural lands. The problem becomes even more topical in
spring when people start planting crops and pasturing.
Over 700 people have died after stepping on mines, including 131
children. Over 2,000 were injured.
