Although the fire in Grunewald broke out at the police detonation site in early August, the Senate wants to continue operations there. Because otherwise there would have to be explosions in the city area. At the same time, new detonations of World War II bombs are announced.
Despite the big fire at the beginning of August, the blasting site of the Berlin police should continue to operate in Grunewald and not be relocated. “There is no alternative to the Grunewald explosive site,” said Interior Senator Iris Spranger. “There is no other suitable location for operating a blasting site in Berlin.” In particular, the location of the square, away from residential buildings and still easily accessible, is a decisive advantage in view of the necessary security for the people, said the SPD politician.
Cooperation with other federal states is not possible, also because of the longer transport routes. Spranger continued that there had been no major fires or accidents since the blasting site was set up in 1950 until the major fire in August. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.
If the blasting site were to be eliminated, there would have to be more frequent blasting in the city area with corresponding closures. Police explosives experts are called two to three times a day to find ammunition or bombs. In 2021 alone, 52 tons of war ammunition were found. In principle, the finds would be taken directly to the Grunewald explosive site after their dangerousness had been assessed. Further protective measures would be discussed for nature. In addition, they are considering buying a firefighting robot.
Today, Wednesday, four old World War II bombs will be blown up in a controlled manner on the site. The A115 (AVUS) motorway towards Potsdam and the parallel railway line at Grunewald had been closed since morning. The autobahn between Funkturm and Zehlendorf and the S-Bahn and trains on the route should only be released again in the afternoon. The S-Bahn asked passengers on the S7 line to use other lines such as the S1.
Four weeks ago, a large fire broke out on the police blasting site in Grunewald. There have been numerous explosions because the police stockpile dud bombs, grenades and ammunition from WWII and illegal fireworks there.
