A suspected unexploded bomb, believed to date back to World War II, has been discovered along the banks of the Subarnarekha River in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district, prompting authorities to seek assistance from the Indian Army for its safe disposal.
According to officials, the device was found in the Baharagora area during sand excavation along the Panipada–Nagudsai stretch. The object, which reportedly resembles a gas cylinder, raised immediate concerns due to its size and condition. Police sources indicated that markings on the bomb, including “AN-M64 500 lb… American… unexploded,” suggest it may be a U.S.-manufactured aerial bomb from the World War II era, although its exact origin is yet to be officially confirmed.
East Singhbhum SP (Rural) Rishav Garg stated that a Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) from Ranchi inspected the site on Thursday. After a thorough examination, the team concluded that the device is both “active” and heavy, making it highly dangerous. He explained that while the BDDS is trained to handle improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and smaller explosives, this particular bomb requires specialized expertise due to its size, age, and potential instability.
“The BDDS team assessed that the bomb is still active and cannot be safely handled using standard procedures. It requires the advanced technical capabilities of the Indian Army’s bomb disposal unit,” Garg said.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Piyush Pandey has formally written to the Army, requesting immediate assistance. He added that necessary procedural formalities are currently being completed to ensure the safe handling and disposal of the explosive.
Meanwhile, Baharagora Police Station officer-in-charge Shankar Prasad Kushwaha confirmed that the area has been cordoned off as a precautionary measure. Villagers have been strictly warned not to approach or tamper with the object under any circumstances.
Authorities are treating the situation with utmost seriousness, given the potential risk posed by the powerful unexploded bomb. Further action will be taken once the Army’s bomb disposal experts arrive at the site to neutralize the threat safely.
