A 28-kilometer stretch of the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, covering Ghumdhum, Tumbru, and Phultali in Bandarban’s Naikhongchhari upazila, has turned into a deadly zone due to widespread landmine contamination linked to fighting across the border. Over the past 18 months, at least 35 Bangladeshis have been killed or injured in explosions, including civilians, Rohingya refugees, fishermen, farm workers, and members of the Border Guard Bangladesh. The latest incident occurred on June 9, when a young man was killed in Ghumdhum.
According to local authorities and security analysts, the mines were laid during intense clashes between Myanmar’s military and the Arakan Army since early 2024. Both sides reportedly used mines to secure defensive positions, leaving the border area perilous even after active fighting subsides. Analysts warn that mines can remain active for years, posing long-term risks to residents who depend on the area for farming, fishing, and collecting forest resources.
Officials have launched awareness campaigns urging locals to avoid zero-line zones, but many continue to enter risky areas for livelihood. Experts recommend stronger diplomatic engagement and international cooperation to identify and clear contaminated zones and protect border communities.
জমির উদ্দিন, চট্টগ্রাম প্রকাশ : ১৮ জুন ২০২৬, ০৯: ১৯ বান্দরবানের নাইক্ষ্যংছড়ি উপজেলার ঘুমধুম, তুমব্রু ও ফুলতলী পর্যন্ত বিস্তৃত ২৮ কিলোমিটার সীমান্ত করিডোর এখন ‘মৃত্যুফাঁদে’ পরিণত হয়েছে। সীমান্তের ওপারে চলমান সংঘাতের প্রভাবে এই এলাকায় ছড়িয়ে পড়েছে স্থলম
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