Switzerland Offers ₹50 Lakh for Solutions to Remove Ammunition from Lakes

Photo : AFP

Switzerland Offers ₹50 Lakh for Solutions to Clear Ammunition from Lakes

Background and Challenge

The Swiss government is seeking innovative solutions to address a significant environmental issue: the removal of thousands of tonnes of ammunition from lakes in Switzerland. This ammunition, estimated at 3,300 tonnes in Lake Lucerne and 4,500 tonnes in Lake Neuchatel, was disposed of by the Swiss military during the Cold War era. The practice of dumping munitions in lakes, which was part of Switzerland's "armed neutrality" defense strategy, lasted from 1918 to 1964.

The ammunition, now submerged and covered by a fine sediment layer, poses serious risks. Some munitions lie at depths of 150-220 meters, while others are only six or seven meters below the surface. The primary concerns include the potential for explosions and contamination of the water and soil. Toxic TNT could pollute lake water and sediments, endangering both the environment and public safety.

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Government Initiative

In response to these risks, the Swiss defense department has announced a competition to find safe and environmentally sound methods for retrieving the submerged ammunition. The Swiss government is offering a prize of 50,000 francs (approximately ₹48.5 lakhs) for the best solutions. The competition is open to the public, with entries being accepted until February 6, 2025. A panel of experts will evaluate the submissions based on predefined criteria, with results expected in April 2025.

Challenges in Recovery

Recovering the ammunition is expected to be complex and costly. The recovery efforts might stir up sediments, leading to oxygen loss and damage to the lake ecosystem. Previous assessments have indicated that proposed techniques could result in muddy waters and increased risks to the sensitive lake environments.

Expert Opinions

Retired Swiss geologist Marcos Buser has suggested seeking advice from countries with experience in managing wartime wrecks, such as the UK, Norway, or Denmark. He has highlighted two main concerns: the risk of explosion due to undisturbed fuses and potential water and soil contamination from toxic TNT. Buser warns that a carefully planned recovery operation is essential to mitigate these risks.

Historical Context

This is not the first time the Swiss military has faced criticism for its handling of munitions. In 1947, a massive explosion in Mitholz killed nine people and destroyed the village. More recently, the military revealed that 3,500 tonnes of unexploded ammunition buried in a mountain required a decade-long clean-up operation, further highlighting the challenges associated with old military practices.

The competition reflects Switzerland's commitment to addressing environmental hazards while seeking practical and innovative solutions to long-standing problems.

Aug. 23, 2024 3:42 p.m. 405

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