World War II Bomb Discovered in Downtown Cologne Affects 7,800 Residents

Cologne - The discovery of unexploded ordnance in Cologne is a frequent occurrence, but it can sometimes disrupt essential infrastructure, including major roads, hospitals, and courts. Recently, during construction work on Greinstraße in the Sülz district of Cologne, a WWII-era bomb was uncovered. This particular bomb weighs 250 kilograms and is equipped with a long-time fuse.

The location of the bomb poses a significant risk as it is near key facilities such as the Unicenter, the regional court, and the local court, in addition to the city archive and a major tram line along Luxemburger Straße.

Immediate measures are being taken to ensure public safety, as the bomb must be defused on the same day it was discovered. Authorities are working diligently to secure the area and evacuate residents within a designated danger zone. The Bomb Disposal Unit from the Düsseldorf district government and local city officials are on-site to manage the situation effectively.

The decision to defuse the bomb cannot be postponed, and the all-clear was issued at 1:38 PM after the operation was successfully completed. The designated danger zone has been established with a radius of 500 meters, which will impact approximately 7,800 individuals who will need to evacuate.

The city of Cologne is actively updating residents regarding the evacuation procedures and the establishment of a support center for those affected. The public is encouraged to stay informed about road closures and traffic disruptions through the city's official website and local media outlets.

As the situation unfolds, residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local authorities. Updates regarding the evacuation area and any additional safety measures will be communicated as soon as possible.