On Thursday, April 17, 2025, a World War II bomb was discovered during construction work in the Greinstraße area of Cologne-Sülz, prompting immediate evacuation measures affecting approximately 7,800 residents. The bomb, weighing five centners and equipped with a long-term detonator, poses a significant risk, necessitating urgent action from local authorities.
The hazardous area has been defined with a radius of 500 meters, encompassing critical locations such as the Unicenter, the regional court, the district court, and the city archive, along with the busy Luxemburger Straße, which is serviced by KVB line 18. With such vital infrastructure impacted, the urgency for defusing the bomb cannot be overstated.
The bomb disposal is scheduled to occur on the same day it was found, and as part of the safety precautions, the Cologne city administration, in collaboration with the Bomb Disposal Service of the Düsseldorf District Government (KBD), has initiated comprehensive evacuation procedures. According to local officials, "The bomb requires immediate action, and we are coordinating efforts to ensure everyone’s safety."
As the evacuation unfolds, the city has set up an assembly point for evacuees at the Hildegard-von-Bingen-Gymnasium located at Leybergstraße 1, 50939 Cologne. This site will serve as a temporary refuge for those displaced from their homes. Residents are advised to follow the instructions of emergency services and to leave the danger zone promptly. The city has also urged individuals planning to travel for the Easter holiday to take their luggage with them when evacuating.
In a statement regarding the situation, the Cologne city officials emphasized the importance of public safety: "We ask all residents within the evacuation radius to cooperate and assist neighbors who may need help. The defusing operation is crucial for your safety."
The discovery of the bomb has led to significant disruptions in daily life in the affected areas. All court proceedings at the Cologne Regional Court were halted around 12:11 PM on Thursday, with staff being sent home early due to the evacuation. The regional court and district court, located within the danger zone, have had to clear all courtrooms, leading to a backlog of legal proceedings.
Traffic disruptions are also expected, with the Stadtbahn line 18 being interrupted and several main thoroughfares in Sülz closed to ensure the safety of both evacuees and emergency responders. The city has advised residents to stay updated on the situation through its official website and local media outlets, including Radio Köln and WDR.
The incident underscores the ongoing legacy of World War II in Germany, where unexploded ordnance remains a concern decades after the conflict ended. Cologne, much like other cities in Germany, has a history of discovering such bombs, which can often lead to large-scale evacuations and safety measures.
As the city continues to manage the situation, authorities remain vigilant and prepared to handle any complications that may arise during the bomb disposal process. The KBD and local law enforcement are on-site, ensuring that all necessary precautions are taken to mitigate risks to the public.
Local residents are encouraged to check for updates regularly as the city continues to provide information regarding the evacuation area, assembly points, and any further developments related to the bomb disposal. The city has committed to keeping the public informed and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed during this critical operation.
In summary, the discovery of the World War II bomb in Cologne-Sülz has led to significant evacuations and safety measures affecting thousands of residents. With bomb disposal set for the same day, the city is taking all necessary precautions to ensure public safety and minimize disruption. Residents are urged to stay informed and cooperate with local authorities as the situation unfolds.
