Major evacuation in Cologne after Second World War bombs discovered

About 20,000 people relocated while allied munitions dropped on German city in 1940s are made safe

The bridge in Cologne on the Rhine river. File picture: Patrik Stollarz/Getty

The biggest evacuation in Cologne since the second world war is under way after the discovery of three unexploded bombs dropped by allied forces 80 years ago.

About 20,000 people are having to leave their homes and businesses, while hotels, a care home for elderly people and a hospital are being evacuated. Three bridges over the Rhine have been closed and rail traffic has been halted or diverted.