The German city of Cologne has begun its largest evacuation operation since the end of World War II, as authorities prepare to defuse multiple unexploded bombs discovered during construction work. The high-stakes operation, which began early Monday morning, will affect more than 15,000 residents in the city’s densely populated Mülheim district.
Local officials have confirmed that at least four unexploded bombs — likely dropped during Allied air raids in the 1940s — were uncovered during a routine inspection related to a development project. Bomb disposal teams, working with police and emergency services, have established a 1-kilometre exclusion zone around the discovery site to ensure public safety during the defusal process.
“This is a significant operation — the largest of its kind in Cologne since 1945,” said a city spokesperson. “The safety of residents is our top priority, and we’re working around the clock to complete the evacuation and defuse the ordnance.”
Residents within the danger zone were instructed to vacate their homes by early Monday, with emergency shelters and transportation provided for those who need assistance. Hospitals, schools, and care homes within the evacuation area have also been temporarily closed or relocated as part of the precautionary measures.
The discovery of unexploded bombs in German cities is not uncommon due to the extensive bombing campaigns carried out by Allied forces during World War II. However, the scale of the current evacuation highlights the ongoing challenges of safely managing wartime remnants in urban environments more than 80 years later.
“We’re constantly uncovering bombs during construction projects,” said Stefan Kraus, head of Cologne’s bomb disposal unit. “But it’s rare to find this many in such a concentrated area. Each device must be handled with extreme caution.”
Authorities say the operation could take several hours or potentially extend into the next day, depending on weather conditions and the stability of the bombs. Once the area is fully cleared and secured, disposal experts will work methodically to defuse each bomb on-site.
Cologne Mayor Henriette Reker praised residents for their cooperation and calm amid the disruption. “I thank the people of Cologne for their patience and solidarity,” she said. “Your safety comes first, and these measures are necessary to ensure everyone is protected.”
The evacuation has disrupted daily life for thousands, but city officials have emphasized that it is a necessary step to protect the population from the hidden dangers left behind by war. Residents are expected to be allowed to return home once the bombs have been safely disarmed and the area declared secure.
The operation serves as a reminder of the lingering legacy of World War II across Europe — and the ongoing efforts required to ensure public safety in its aftermath.
Swifteradio.com
