GCS is supporting HI in its humanitarian mission to rid Colombia of its legacy of landmine and IED (improvised explosive devices) contamination, arising from decades of conflict. Together, GCS and HI are currently evaluating how to best use mechanical equipment in such a challenging environment. Clearance work is a vital step in improving security and enhancing the socioeconomic development of vulnerable communities.

The GCS-100 platform, which was previously chosen by HI as the ideal solution for increasing the overall safety and efficiency of clearance operations, is designed to navigate the very demanding, vegetation-dense and hilly environment of the region. Contamination consists primarily of IEDs, often acting like standard anti-personnel mines, planted along roads and footpaths, schools and homes, and other infrastructure.

Last week HI commenced mechanical accreditation training on the GCS-100 platform. GCS Senior Technical Advisor Paulo Dias accompanied the machine to the HI training centre in Basillas. Once the operator training and field accreditation is complete, the operations of GCS-100 platform will commence. The output of the GCS-100 will be rigorously evaluated after three months. In addition, GCS will provide daily service and maintenance support to HI during the first three months of mechanical operations.