Evacuation and Safety Measures
Upon confirmation of the bomb’s historical significance, a joint effort between local police and a specialized Air Force unit was swiftly mobilized to ensure safe disposal. The operation necessitated the evacuation of residents within a 1-kilometer radius, with extensive precautions taken, including the deployment of a substantial police force and the strategic placement of 5,000 sandbags to contain any potential hazards.A Domestic Fire Tender (DFT) was also positioned to mitigate fire risks, alongside heavy machinery like a JCB for excavation purposes. Approximately 20 to 30 casual laborers were engaged to support the bomb disposal squad during this critical operation.
“We could only see smoke and hear a loud blast,” lamented a local villager, expressing disappointment at missing the historical event.
Government Response and Acknowledgment
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee took to social media to acknowledge the incident and commend the prompt action taken by state authorities and the Air Force. In her official statement posted on X, she praised the coordinated efforts that led to the safe handling and successful defusing of the wartime relic.Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on Friday posted on X: “Yesterday, it came to our notice that an undetonated bomb of World War II was found in an open field in village Bhulanpur, Gopiballavpur in Jhargram district. State government machinery including police and also air force immediately swung into action. Public from nearby areas were shifted to safe & secure place. Thereafter it was safely and successfully diffused. I thank everyone involved for the good work done.”Historical Significance and Context
This incident isn’t an isolated one for the region. In 2018, a similar discovery occurred when a 1000-pound bomb, believed to be from World War II, was found at Netaji Subhas dock. These incidents underscore the historical legacy and potential risks associated with unexploded ordnance in West Bengal, reflecting the area’s deep ties to wartime history.
(With inputs from TOI)
