Cologne Launches Major Evacuation for WWII Bomb Disposal

In a significant operation, Cologne authorities are coordinating the evacuation of around 20,500 people to facilitate the safe removal of three historical bombs discovered in the Deutz neighborhood.

The German city of Cologne has initiated a massive evacuation effort, relocating approximately 20,500 residents from the city center to allow bomb disposal experts to safely disarm three World War II-era bombs uncovered in a local shipyard. Discovered on Monday, the American bombs are considered dangerous, prompting the city to establish a secure zone with a 1,000-meter (3,280 feet) exclusion radius, marking this as "the largest operation since WW2."

The evacuation process, which includes enclosing homes, shops, hotels, schools, and even a significant hospital, demands compliance from residents. Authorities warned that refusal to evacuate could result in police intervention and potential fines. Emergency services have been activated, aiding critically ill patients to exit from facilities like the Eduardus Hospital.

Scheduled for Wednesday, bomb disposal teams from the nation’s service plan to diffuse a ten-tonne and a twenty-tonne bomb, contingent on the safe evacuation of all individuals from the zone. The operation began with officials going door to door, instructing residents to evacuate. Local businesses, restaurants, and numerous cultural institutions, including the Philharmonic Hall and various museums, have temporarily ceased operations.

Transportation in the area has been greatly affected, with all roads closed and numerous train services canceled, including the closure of the Messe/Deutz train station since 08:00 local time (07:00 BST). For those without alternative accommodations during the evacuation, local authorities have established two temporary drop-in centers. Residents received guidance to remain calm, bring identification and essential medications, and ensure the safety of their pets throughout the evacuation duration.

While Cologne Bonn Airport continues normal flight operations, access to the airport remains challenging due to train and road closures.