Battle Area Clearance in Afghanistan

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BACKGROUND

A multinational US construction company building a new 100-megawatt power station on the outskirts of Kabul contracted TDI in 2008 to provide demining support to its construction crews. The task was complicated by the fact that the area to be cleared was a former military firing range and in order to fit into the client’s construction schedule, TDI had to deploy in the middle of the harsh Afghan winter.

ACTION

TDI used a combination of mechanical and manual teams and recruited a group of local national Afghan Deminers. In order to deal with the frozen ground TDI deployed an armoured excavator, which was able to penetrate the frozen layer of ground, lifting soil and spreading it in an area where the Deminers using metal detectors could search it.

Temperatures well below freezing did not deter the Deminers who were the only team working in Afghanistan at the time.

OUTCOME

TDI completed the task within schedule and, as a result, the power plant moved into full production.

TESTIMONIALS

“Exceeded all my expectations on this work, the professionalism and standard of the work process was exceptional... TDI played a big part in keeping my schedule on track.”

“I have found TDI to be very thorough and professional in carrying out their demining activities and I have no hesitation in recommending their services to prospective clients.”

“TDI continues to adapt to the changing requirements of the operational environment and we would have no reservations on recommending them for inclusion in further projects in challenging conditions.“

“TDI have conducted all operations with professionalism, enthusiasm and initiative. They have kept production going during extreme weather, when other subcontractors have not been able to maintain their operations.”

“The work completed to date has been to a standard exceeding expectations of WesternGeco.”

“(TDI) have conducted themselves in a professional and dedicated manner in all interaction with the Sudanese authorities and local population. In addition to this they have worked closely with the National Mine Action Centre when required and cooperated fully with all our partners in Darfur for which we are very grateful.”

“I am indebted to TDI for the intense and comprehensive training of Sibro’s National EOD Operators and the continuing mentorship of these teams…It is my fervent hope that TDI should continue its good work”

“We can certify that the professional relationship established early last year has yielded success in implementing a complex project and delivering the expected results. We value TDI as a reliable partner and are extremely satisfied with the cooperation to date.”

They have provided a professional and high level of clearance support as well as project management throughout the contract period. We would recommend them to any future contractor.”

It is very impressive to see how much you and the team have managed to achieve in extremely challenging circumstances. The project is really building momentum.

In May 2020, armoured vehicles of the Force had been silted up for several days so a recovery truck was needed. TDI personnel were escorted to the site and did an outstanding and effective job of assisting the vehicles. I would like to personally thank all those involved for their professionalism and their reactivity.

The Development Initiative