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WWII Bomb at Duisburg Central Station Detonated as Track Checks Clear the Lines

After a late-night controlled blast and safety inspections, officials lifted closures and rail traffic recovered through Thursday afternoon.

Overview

  • An American 10‑Zentner World War II bomb found during platform 2 modernization was the second discovery at the station in as many days.
  • The device was exploded at about 23:15 after delays caused by residents remaining in the evacuation zone and the time needed to fill large water bags; authorities opened administrative proceedings that can carry fines up to €1,000.
  • Bomb disposal crews placed the ordnance in a roughly four‑meter pit, covered it with sand and 25,000‑liter water bags, and had the overhead lines de‑energized to reduce surface effects.
  • Following the blast, tracks 2 and 5 were closed for measurements until early afternoon, when inspectors reported no damage, avoiding lengthy repairs and enabling service to normalize.
  • The operation drew a large multi‑agency response, including municipal and federal police, firefighters, DB security, and volunteer aid workers supporting the evacuation of about 6,600 residents.