Cologne's Hidden Danger: WWII Bombs Discovered

Cologne, a city in western Germany, faced a significant challenge recently when three old bombs from World War II were found in its heart. This discovery led to a massive evacuation, affecting around 20, 000 people. The bombs, remnants of a war that ended 80 years ago, were a stark reminder of the past. The city's old town, along with 58 hotels, three bridges, the town hall, a railway station, museums, a hospital, and two care homes, were all part of the evacuation zone. The famous Cologne Cathedral, however, was just outside the danger area. This evacuation was one of the largest since World War II, showing how the past can still impact the present. The process of defusing the bombs was not straightforward. A resident in the old town refused to leave, causing a delay. Public order officials, police, and the fire department had to step in to ensure the person's safety and the success of the operation. Kai Kulschewski, who was in charge of the disposal, emphasized that the operation could only begin once everyone was safe. The bombs, two weighing 2000 pounds and one 1000 pounds, were made in the US and found in the Deutz district. The city had to deal with significant disruptions, including diverted or canceled trains and severe road traffic issues. This event highlighted the ongoing impact of World War II on modern-day Germany. Cologne was a major target during the war, with the British Royal Air Force conducting a significant raid in 1942. This raid dropped thousands of tons of bombs, destroying or damaging countless buildings. The recent bomb discovery and evacuation serve as a reminder of the war's lasting effects. The city's experience with bomb defusals is not new. Cologne has had to deal with these situations multiple times due to its history as a bombing target. This recent event, however, was one of the largest evacuations since the war ended. It underscores the importance of preparedness and the need to address the past's lingering dangers.