Challenges in Clearing Debris in Gaza
After the Israeli offensive in Gaza, a significant challenge lies in clearing away the estimated 37 million tonnes of debris left behind. This task is further complicated by the presence of unexploded ordnance buried in the rubble, as highlighted by Pehr Lodhammar from the UN Mine Action Service.
Live Ammunition Concerns
Lodhammar emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the amount of live ammunition that remains in Gaza. With a typical failure rate of at least 10% for land service ammunition, the risk posed by unexploded ordnance is a major concern for the clearing efforts.
Debris Quantity and Complexity
The estimated 37 million tonnes of debris equate to approximately 300 kilos per square metre, indicating the extensive cleanup required in the region. This massive amount of debris, coupled with the presence of unexploded ordnance, presents a complex and dangerous situation for those involved in the clearance operations.