WWII shell found in Lithuania during preparation for Poland electricity link

An unexploded World War II artillery shell was found in the territory designated for the future Gižai substation, a discovery made during preparatory work for the Lithuania-Poland electricity interconnection project. Specialists conducting surveys and clearing the area initially found various metal objects, mostly old agricultural implements and other debris.

Last week, a 75mm artillery shell containing explosives was uncovered. The General Assistance Center was immediately notified. Explosive ordnance disposal experts from the Lithuanian Army's Juozas Vitkus Engineering Battalion arrived at the scene and safely removed the shell for destruction.

The examination of the Gižai substation area for wartime explosives is a crucial step in preparing for the construction of the 'Harmony Link' project. In recent days alone, approximately 100 kilograms of various metal objects have been found and removed. Surveys will continue along the entire electricity transmission line up to the border with Poland.

'Harmony Link' is a strategically important project connecting Lithuania and Poland. It aims to enhance the integration of the Baltic states' electricity systems with continental Europe and improve the reliability of the power transmission system.