Soviet-Era 500-Kg Bomb Found in Afghanistan Garden, Safely Destroyed by Demining Team

Authorities safely disposed of the unexploded Soviet-era bomb after it was discovered in a residential garden. (Representative Image)

An unexploded 500-kilogram Soviet-era bomb was found in the garden of a private residence in eastern Afghanistan, authorities said on Thursday. The discovery prompted an immediate response from local security forces and a specialist demining team, who safely removed and destroyed the explosive.

The incident occurred in Sir village of Ghazni province after a resident noticed a suspicious object while in the garden of his home.

Bomb Found in Residential Garden

According to local police, the homeowner alerted authorities after spotting what appeared to be an unidentified object buried within the property.

Security personnel, accompanied by a demining team from the Danish Refugee Council, arrived at the location to assess the situation.

After examination, experts confirmed that the object was a 500-kilogram unexploded bomb dating back to the Soviet military presence in Afghanistan.

The explosive was carefully transported to a remote mountainous location, where it was safely detonated under controlled conditions without causing injuries or property damage.

Soviet-Era Explosives Continue to Threaten Afghanistan

Although Soviet forces withdrew from Afghanistan in 1989 after nearly a decade of conflict, the country remains heavily contaminated with unexploded bombs, landmines and other explosive remnants of war.

Decades of conflict involving multiple armed groups have left thousands of dangerous explosives buried across farmland, villages and residential areas, posing a serious threat to civilians.

These hidden explosives continue to be discovered during farming, construction work and everyday activities.

Thousands of Casualties Linked to War Remnants

According to the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), more than 45,000 Afghans have been killed or injured by landmines and unexploded ordnance since the withdrawal of Soviet troops.

Children are among the most vulnerable, as many explosive devices remain hidden in open fields, abandoned buildings and populated areas.

Humanitarian agencies continue to conduct clearance operations and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing casualties.

Demining Operations Face Funding Challenges

Despite the ongoing threat, demining efforts in Afghanistan have slowed due to funding constraints.

Earlier this year, the United Nations warned that the number of active mine-clearance teams operating across the country has declined significantly over the past two years.

Aid agencies say reduced resources have affected the pace of explosive disposal, leaving many contaminated areas yet to be cleared.

Ongoing Risk Remains

The discovery of the unexploded bomb serves as another reminder of the lasting impact of Afghanistan's decades-long conflicts.

While authorities safely disposed of the device without incident, experts warn that thousands of similar explosives may still remain buried across the country, requiring continued clearance efforts to protect communities.