Project Masam’s demining Team 9 has started clearing the sides of the main road connecting the Usaylan district to Ataq, the capital of the south-central Shabwah governorate – a battleground of Yemen’s current war.
Yemen’s limited network of main highways and roads has been weaponised as a way to strip warring parties of access to strategic areas across the country over the last 10 years.
In a statement, the leader of Team 9 explained that the team is currently focusing on the village of Al-Akda in the Usaylan district. This effort is part of a broader initiative to clear landmines and explosive devices planted by Houthi militias.
Project Masam’s goal is to secure the roadsides to ensure safe and unrestricted movement.
The deminer noted that the team has successfully secured 67,000 square metres so far and emphasised their commitment to continuing the work until the entire area is fully cleared.
Team 9 is diligently working to clear the mines planted along the sides of the road while implementing all necessary security measures to ensure the safety of pedestrians and local residents.
This road is a crucial artery connecting Ataq city with the districts of Bayhan and Usaylan. It has been heavily mined in recent times, posing a significant threat to the safety of those traveling along it.