(Phnom Penh): On 2 April 2026, Trapeang Rung Commune in Koh Kong Province was officially declared mine-free with collaboration from India, marking a significant milestone in Cambodia’s ongoing humanitarian mine action efforts.

The ceremony was presided by Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice-President of the Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA) and also attended by Vanlalvawna Bawitlung, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Cambodia; Lao Bunkheng, Deputy Governor of Koh Kong Province; and Major General Sem Ratana, Acting Director General of the National Centre for Peacekeeping Forces, Mines and Explosive Remnants of War Clearance (NPMEC), along with other distinguished guests.

During the visit of vice president of India to Cambodia in 2022, India had announced grant assistance for mine clearance in three districts, Botum Sakor, Srae Ambel, and Thma Bang, as well as Trapeang Rung Commune.

Following the successful declaration of Botum Sakor and Srae Ambel as mine-free, the declaration of Trapeang Rung demonstrates strong progress and momentum towards the shared goal of a mine-free Cambodia, including ongoing efforts in Thma Bang district. India’s support to mine action in Cambodia also includes the implementation of Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).

In Koh Kong Province, two such projects have been completed, contributing to the clearance of mines in several villages. Another QIP is currently underway in Prey Andoung Village in Pursat Province.

Beyond mine clearance, India’s development partnership with Cambodia continues to expand. In collaboration with the Koh Kong Provincial Administration, a Pre- and Post-Partum Maternity Care Centre at Koh Sdach Communal Hospital was inaugurated last year under a QIP, enhancing maternal and child healthcare services in the province. Additionally, a new QIP involving the construction of a kindergarten at Peam Kay Primary School in Phnhi Meas Commune is currently being implemented.

Speaking on the occasion, the Ambassador highlighted that the declaration of Trapeang Rung Commune as mine-free represents an important step forward in ensuring safer communities and advancing sustainable development in Cambodia. The Ambassador emphasized that landmine clearance not only removes hidden dangers but also restores hope, enables safe livelihoods, and unlocks the full potential of communities by making land safer for agriculture, infrastructure, and everyday life.

The Embassy of India congratulates the CMAA, NPMEC, Koh Kong Provincial Administration, and all stakeholders involved.
=FRESH NEWS