Egypt Daily News – In an unprecedented move since the end of World War II, the German city of Cologne carried out its largest evacuation operation in modern history on Tuesday, June 4, 2025, after the discovery of three unexploded bombs from the Nazi era in the Deutz district, located in the heart of the city.
Details of the Incident
The American-made bombs, weighing between 45 and 90 kilograms, were discovered during construction work in the area. Equipped with impact fuses, the bombs are considered extremely dangerous.
Authorities established an evacuation zone with a radius of 1,000 meters around the site. The operation affected:
- 58 hotels
- 9 schools
- Several museums
- Deutz train station, one of the busiest in the city
Additionally, three major bridges crossing the Rhine River—including the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge—were closed, and river traffic was suspended.
Impact on Infrastructure
The evacuation led to a complete halt in train and tram services in the affected area, severely disrupting mobility across the city. Temporary shelters were set up in tents, sports halls, and churches to accommodate evacuated residents.
Police, fire brigades, and volunteers were deployed to ensure the evacuation proceeded smoothly and safely.
Historical Significance
This incident is a stark reminder of the lingering impact of World War II on modern-day Germany. Despite the war ending over 80 years ago, the discovery of unexploded ordnance remains common in many German cities, prompting precautionary measures to protect public safety.
The bomb defusal operation is expected to continue throughout the day, with the timeline dependent on the completion of the evacuation and safety assessments of the surrounding area.
Cologne was one of the most heavily bombed cities during WWII, enduring 262 air raids that killed approximately 20,000 people.
This operation underscores the German authorities’ commitment to public safety and their preparedness to address risks stemming from the war’s remnants. It also highlights the importance of historical awareness when managing present-day urban challenges.
