OVERVIEW
More than 5.1 million people crossed the ‘contact line’ through the five operational checkpoints since the beginning of the year, while under the threat of an increased number of shelling and shootings in the vicinity of checkpoints. On 6 and 9 August, due to regular exchange of fire the checkpoints in Marinka and Zaitseve suspended operations for several hours in order to avoid civilian casualties.
A pedestrian bridge in danger of collapsing near the checkpoint in Stanytsia Luhanska threatens both the lives of people crossing as well as checkpoint operations. Urgent and comprehensive repairs need to be carried out, as it was reported by OSCE SMM on 5 August. On 9 August, a 70-year-old man fell from the wooden bridge (3.5 - 4 meters high) after becoming unconscious. The rescue operation was complicated due to mine contamination and the presence of UXOs in the area.
The security of situation at the checkpoints has substantially deteriorated during the summer months, while hot temperatures added to the hardship of hundred of thousands of civilians awaiting to cross the contact line by foot or vehicles. Meanwhile, humanitarian partners have stepped up response efforts at the five operating checkpoints providing water, sanitary facilities and latrines, mine awareness information, sheds and health assistance to the civilians that are queuing to cross the contact line, yet the needs remain high.