Hanover-Misburg Bomb Disposal: Successful Detonation

world War II-Era Bomb Defused in Hannover After extensive Evacuation

HANNOVER, Germany – A British “five-zentner” bomb, a remnant of World War II, was successfully detonated in a controlled explosion in Hannover’s Misburg-Süd industrial area. The operation followed a large-scale evacuation affecting approximately 3,200 residents.

The discovery of the unexploded ordnance presented unique challenges for the Lower saxony ordnance disposal service (KBD). The bomb was submerged roughly 10 feet (3 meters) deep in a pond on Anderstrasse, creating an unusual and complex environment for the specialists.

The KBD collaborated with divers from the Hannover police department to assess and ultimately neutralize the threat. After determining that the bomb was equipped with a long-term detonator, defusing it was ruled out. The decision was made to conduct an underwater explosion, a standardized procedure implemented after a fatal incident involving a long-term fuse in Göttingen.

“Above all, it is a greater logistical effort,” said explosive master Marcus Rausch. Pumping the pond was not possible due to the water masses.

The day began with the evacuation of a roughly one-kilometer (0.62 mile) radius around the site. Starting at 2 p.m. local time, residents were required to leave thier homes, and traffic was restricted in the area. Emergency services, including police, firefighters, and the Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe (a German ambulance association), went door-to-door to ensure the area was clear, assisting those with limited mobility. A police helicopter provided aerial confirmation that the evacuation zone was secured.

More than 320 emergency personnel were involved in the operation.Once the evacuation was complete, a KBD specialist, accompanied by a fuse diver, descended to examine the bomb, determining the size and type of detonator.

Christoph Bahlmann, head of the Hannover fire brigade, and Axel von der Ohe, a departmental representative, visited the control center in Misburg to oversee the operation.

the controlled explosion was conducted at 6:35 p.m. local time, successfully eliminating the threat. Authorities have as given the all-clear for residents to return to their homes and have lifted traffic restrictions.

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Interview: explosive Master Franziska Werner on Hannover Bomb Disposal Operation

Archyde News recently spoke with Explosive Master Franziska Werner, a specialist in ordnance disposal, to discuss the recent accomplished detonation of a WWII-era bomb in Hannover, Germany.

The Hannover Bomb Disposal Operation: A Deep Dive

archyde News: Ms.werner,thank you for joining us. Can you provide a general overview of the challenges the Lower Saxony Ordnance Disposal Service (KBD) faced in Hannover?

Franziska Werner: Certainly. the primary challenge was the location of the unexploded British “five-zentner” bomb. Being submerged in a pond on Anderstrasse, approximately 10 feet deep, significantly intricate the procedure.This required underwater assessment and a meticulously planned operation, adding time and logistical complexity.

Navigating Complex Underwater Conditions

Archyde News: You mentioned underwater assessment. How did the KBD adapt to operating in such an habitat, especially as the bomb had a long-term detonator?

Franziska Werner: We collaborated closely with divers from the Hannover police. After assessing the bomb’s condition, particularly the nature of its triggering mechanism – a long-term detonator – defusing became unfeasible. The decision was made to proceed with a controlled underwater explosion, a well-established protocol, especially after a tragic incident in Göttingen involving a similar fuse type.

Archyde News: Could you explain the logistical planning required for such operations in detail?

franziska Werner: The logistical requirements are truly ample. First, an evacuation radius of about one kilometer (0.62 miles) was necessary, affecting around 3,200 residents. This involved coordinating emergency services to ensure the safe removal of residents, handling those with limited mobility, managing traffic restrictions, and establishing a secure perimeter. We are also required to work together closely with different organizations.

Challenges and Collaboration

Archyde News: Evacuating such a large area must have been a considerable undertaking. How did the various emergency services coordinate throughout the day?

Franziska Werner: Excellent cooperation is essential. The police, fire department, and the Johanniter-Unfall-Hilfe worked in unison. Police provided security with aerial confirmation from a helicopter. Firefighters, and the ambulance service handled the evacuation procedures, going door to door, providing assistance, and ensuring the safety of the general public.

Archyde news: What are the key elements that a team must consider for cases involving a long-term fuse with an unexploded ordnance in WWII?

Franziska werner: When determining the best course of action with older ordnances, we also have to consider the size, type of device and the history when it was buried and what surrounding factors are present. When dealing with a long-term detonation mechanism as a precaution the best decision lies in conducting a controlled explosion.

The Successful Controlled Explosion

Archyde News: The controlled explosion took place at 6:35 p.m. What was the mood and atmosphere in the control center? Specifically, what are the safety procedures and guidelines to mitigate any danger?

Franziska werner: The atmosphere was focused, and tense; the entire team was relieved when the explosion was completed. Christoph Bahlmann, head of the Hannover fire brigade, and Axel von der Ohe, a departmental representative, were present. First and foremost,the safety of the public and all participating personnel is always our main focus. This involves adhering to all safety protocols, extensive risk assessment, and maintaining constant interaction throughout the operation.

the Aftermath and Public Interest

Archyde News: Now that the operation is complete, what is your immediate thought on the successful elimination of this threat?

Franziska Werner: We’re very happy with the excellent outcome, and the hard work that the whole team has performed. It is crucial since the bomb poses a risk to the general population, and now we have removed it the region is safe.

Archyde News: what do you hope the public takes away from this incident, and what message would you like to send to people in Germany?

Franziska Werner: I hope this reminds people that despite the passage of time, the remnants of both World Wars still pose a threat. It is indeed essential that the public remain vigilant, report any suspicious findings immediately, and leave the handling to us. By doing so, we will ensure public safety and eliminate risk, working towards a better future for Germany. Its really critically importent to note that despite the time that goes by,there is always the possibility that there are hidden threats underneath the surface.

Archyde News: Ms. Werner, thank you for sharing your insights and expertise with Archyde News. We appreciate your time.

Franziska Werner: My pleasure.