The German city of Cologne is undertaking a massive evacuation of approximately 20,500 people from a large area in the city centre to enable experts to defuse three unexploded World War Two bombs. The American bombs were discovered on Monday in a shipyard in the Deutz neighbourhood.
“If you refuse, we will escort you from your home – if necessary by force – along with the police,” the authorities said, warning residents that refusal to leave could result in expensive fines. Homes, shops, hotels, schools, a large hospital, and a major train station have been evacuated.
The country’s bomb disposal service plans to defuse the ten-tonne and 20-tonne bombs on Wednesday, but only after all residents in the area have left for their own safety. The evacuation has affected cultural institutions, including the Philharmonic Hall and many museums, as well as government buildings, 58 hotels, and nine schools.
Residents were advised to “stay calm”, bring their ID and any essential medications, and to take care of their pets. Two drop-in centres have been set up for people who don’t have anywhere to go during the evacuation period. Cologne Bonn Airport said flights would continue as usual, but travelling to the airport by train or road may be difficult.
The massive operation has caused significant disruptions, with all roads closed in the area, many trains cancelled, and the Messe/Deutz train station closed. Fifteen couples scheduled to get married at Cologne’s historic town hall had their ceremonies relocated to another part of the city.
The bomb disposal operation is expected to be a complex and delicate process, requiring utmost care to prevent any accidental detonation. Experts are working diligently on it.
Residents are advised to stay calm and follow instructions from authorities, with essential services and support available during the evacuation and defusal process nearby.