Clearing the Path to Recovery: The HALO Trust’s Mission in Palmyra
Ten years have passed since the fall of Palmyra to the so-called Islamic State, marking a dark chapter in the city’s history. Now, as Syrians begin to return to their homes following the downfall of the Assad regime, The HALO Trust is gearing up to tackle the daunting task of clearing Palmyra of unexploded military ordinance.
By Francesca Merlo
Palmyra, once a thriving city on the ancient Silk Road, now lies in ruins, a stark reminder of the brutalities of the Syrian civil war. The destruction brought about by the conflict has not only exposed the city’s historical beauty but also left behind a deadly legacy of landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) that pose a grave threat to returning residents.
Damian O’Brien, Country Director for The HALO Trust’s Syria operations, recently visited Palmyra and witnessed firsthand the devastation wrought by war. Despite the challenges ahead, O’Brien remains optimistic about the prospect of restoring life to this once vibrant city.
Palmyra Today: A Glimpse of the Past and Present
During his visit, O’Brien observed the remnants of foreign soldiers in Palmyra, a stark reminder of the city’s recent history. The modern town of Palmyra, once a bustling community, now lies in ruins, ravaged by airstrikes and artillery shells. The absence of formal surveys has left the area vulnerable to accidents caused by hidden explosives.
As Palmyra stands on the cusp of resettlement, the road to recovery is fraught with challenges. O’Brien acknowledges the daunting task of rebuilding a city where private property and infrastructure have been decimated. Despite the obstacles, he remains hopeful that with time and effort, Palmyra can once again thrive.
Clearing the Path to Recovery: The Challenge of Unexploded Ordnance
The desert landscape surrounding Palmyra is contaminated with landmines and improvised explosive devices, posing a significant threat to returning residents. The shifting control of the area by different armed groups has made the task of surveying and clearing explosive remnants more complex.
The urgency to remove these hazards is mounting, as displaced families return to areas still riddled with explosives. The HALO Trust is working to empower local teams to lead the clearing effort, ensuring that Syrians themselves play a crucial role in securing their communities.
Building a Safer Future: Training and Empowering Syrians
Surveying and clearance operations must meet international standards to ensure the safety of returning residents. The HALO Trust’s approach focuses on training local teams to detect and remove mines and explosives safely. Despite the challenges ahead, O’Brien is confident in the resilience and capabilities of the Syrian people.
The road to recovery in Syria is long, but with the support of local authorities and international partners, The HALO Trust aims to make the country a safer and more secure place for its citizens. By investing in local resources and expertise, Syria can pave the way for a brighter future.
As Syria navigates the complexities of post-war reconstruction, The HALO Trust remains committed to clearing the path to recovery in Palmyra and beyond. With the right support and resources, the scars of war can one day be healed, allowing Syria to reclaim its rightful place in history.
