On April 17, 2025, a World War II aircraft bomb was discovered during construction work in the Greinstraße area of Cologne-Sülz. This five-centner bomb, which still contains a long-term detonator, poses a serious threat to the local population and necessitated immediate action from city officials and emergency services.
The city of Cologne issued a warning via the BIWAPP citizen information and warning app, advising residents to avoid the affected area and follow the instructions of emergency services. The warning stated, "The Cologne Fire Department informs: An aircraft bomb from World War II was found in Cologne-Sülz. This warning is issued for the public order office of the city of Cologne. Recommended action: Avoid the affected area. Follow the instructions of the emergency services. Turn on radio and television. Inform yourself through all available media. Please bypass the affected area extensively!" This alert is valid from April 17, 2025, at 11:33 AM until April 24, 2025, at 11:33 AM.
Approximately 7,800 residents are expected to be evacuated from the immediate vicinity, as the hazard area has been established with a radius of 500 meters. The Cologne authorities have emphasized the importance of safety, stating that the bomb must be defused on the same day it was discovered. The local bomb disposal service from the Düsseldorf district government is on-site, working alongside the Cologne public order office to manage the situation.
In light of the evacuation, the city has also issued guidance for those planning to travel for the Easter holiday. Residents are advised to take their luggage with them when leaving their homes. The public transportation system is significantly affected, with KVB bus lines 130, 134, and 142 no longer serving the danger area. Line 9 has temporarily ceased operations at the Universitätsstraße stop, and Line 18 is only running between Slabystraße and Barbarossaplatz. Disruptions in service are expected, and the KVB has warned commuters to anticipate delays.
As of 1:45 PM, the first round of notifications to residents began, with officials going door-to-door to inform individuals of the evacuation and necessary precautions. Road closures have also been implemented to secure the area surrounding the bomb site. A contact point for affected citizens has been established at the Hildegard-von-Bingen-Gymnasium, located at Leybergstraße 1, where residents can seek information and assistance. Access to the gymnasium can be made via Aegidienberger Straße.
The discovery of unexploded ordnance from World War II is not uncommon in Germany, where remnants of the conflict remain buried in various urban areas. Authorities regularly conduct bomb disposal operations, but the presence of a live bomb still poses a significant risk, requiring immediate and coordinated responses from emergency services.
Residents are urged to stay informed through local news outlets and the city’s official communication channels for updates on the situation. The authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and security of all citizens impacted by this event.
As the city of Cologne navigates this emergency, the cooperation of the public is crucial. Residents are reminded to adhere to the instructions provided by emergency services and to remain vigilant regarding their surroundings. The community's safety is a top priority, and all measures are being taken to address the situation swiftly and effectively.
The presence of unexploded bombs from World War II is a stark reminder of the past and the ongoing challenges faced by cities like Cologne. With each discovery, the potential for danger resurfaces, prompting a thorough response from local authorities to mitigate risks and protect residents.
As the defusing operation approaches, further updates will be provided by the city and emergency services. It is essential for residents to stay tuned for any changes to the situation and to follow all safety protocols as outlined in the warnings.
In summary, the discovery of a World War II bomb in Cologne-Sülz has led to the evacuation of thousands of residents and significant disruptions in public transport. The city is actively working to ensure the safety of its citizens while managing the complexities of this emergency response.
