Daily Times

KHYBER AGENCY: FATA Pakistan Red Crescent (PRC) commemorated ‘International Mine Awareness Day’ by increasing awareness among tribesmen.

The day was observed in Kurram, Bajaur, Mohmand, Bar Qamber Bara and Khyber Agency. Political agents, civil society, students and staff of PRC participated in the event.

‘International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action’ is observed annually on April 4. The event aims to reduce social, economic and environmental impact of landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW) on community. It urges tribesmen to adopt safety behavior.

Assistant Director Youth and volunteer Muhammad Riaz Khan highlighted welfare activities of PRC during disasters. He said that the event enhances sensitivity of the tribesmen regarding devastation caused by mine explosions. He requested people for their support to PRC for demining that would minimise the risks of damage.

“Law and order situation in FATA has contributed to mines and explosives to either disable or kill hundreds of men who were unaware of its damages,” said Riaz Khan.

He said that Community Based Risk Education and Victim Assistance (CBRE/VA) Program by PRC conducted awareness sessions in schools, community and other places on daily basis throughout the year. People have benefited by the sessions.

Renowned personalities addressed eulogised the endeavors of PRC and extended their full patronage for conducting awareness sessions. They appealed participants to convey the message to their family members so they could adopt safety measures.

At the end awards and prizes were distributed among disabled people of the community.

Published in Daily Times, April 6^th 2018.