Cologne's authorities enforce a mass evacuation of over 20,000 residents to safely defuse three WWII bombs, affecting local transportation and businesses.
Cologne Evacuates Thousands Amid World War II Bomb Disposal Operation
Cologne Evacuates Thousands Amid World War II Bomb Disposal Operation
German city faces largest evacuation since the end of WWII as unexploded ordnance is discovered near a shipyard.
The German city of Cologne is taking unprecedented measures as it prepares to evacuate approximately 20,500 residents from a central area to facilitate the safe defusal of three World War II-era bombs. These unexploded ordnance were located on Monday at a shipyard in the Deutz district, prompting officials to announce a significant evacuation operation described as "the largest since the end of WWII."
To ensure public safety, police have cordoned off a zone within a 1,000-meter radius around the bombs, encompassing residential buildings, hotels, shops, schools, and even a major hospital. Authorities warn that those who refuse to comply with the evacuation order may face fines, and individuals could be escorted from their homes by police if necessary.
The city's bomb disposal unit is set to defuse the bombs on Wednesday, but the operation hinges on the complete evacuation of the densely populated area. Consequently, officials have been going door to door to inform residents that they must vacate their homes, leading to eerily quiet streets as shops and restaurants halt operations during the daytime. Cultural landmarks, including the Philharmonic Hall and various museums, along with numerous government offices, hotels, and schools, have also been significantly impacted.
Transportation has been severely disrupted: roads in the vicinity are closed, train services have been canceled, and the nearby Messe/Deutz train station has ceased operations since 08:00 local time. Authorities have established two drop-in centers for residents lacking alternative accommodations during the evacuation.
While Cologne Bonn Airport is continuing its flight operations, travel to the airport is anticipated to be challenging due to road and train disruptions. Some residents facing relocation have had their plans interrupted; for instance, fifteen couples were forced to move their wedding ceremonies from the historic town hall to another location in the city. The evacuation has sparked significant public interest and concern, with residents encouraged to remain calm, carry identification and necessary medications, and ensure the safety of their pets.
