Critical infrastructure such as railways plays a central role in Ukraine's resilience and recovery. In areas affected by explosive contamination, safe operation depends on clearance, but also on the ability of infrastructure managers and field personnel to recognise and report explosive risks correctly.

In June 2024, Global Clearance Solutions (GCS) delivered Provincial Explosive Awareness and Reporting (PEAR) training in Kyiv for Ukraine National Railways, tailored specifically to the operational needs of a national transport authority.

Risk awareness for infrastructure management

The training was designed for personnel responsible for managing and maintaining rail infrastructure in environments where landmines and other explosive remnants of war may still be present. Rather than focusing on clearance execution, the programme equips participants to identify indicators of explosive hazards, apply structured reporting procedures and support safe decisionmaking during inspection, maintenance and reconstruction activities.

This approach helps reduce exposure to risk for railway staff while ensuring that suspected hazards are escalated efficiently to the appropriate clearance authorities.

The PEAR programme reflects GCS's broader approach to explosive threat mitigation, combining technology, operational expertise and targeted training to support safe land use. By adapting the training to the specific context of critical transport infrastructure, GCS supports continuity of essential services while clearance activities continue elsewhere.

International support for capacity building

The training project was supported by DEG Impulse as part of the develoPPP programme, with funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). This support enables the transfer of practical riskmanagement capability to civilian institutions operating in contaminated environments.

By strengthening explosiverisk awareness and reporting within Ukraine National Railways, GCS contributes to safer operation of transport infrastructure and supports broader recovery efforts where mobility, logistics and access remain essential.