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Rediff.com  » News » Why terrorists targetted Pune's German Bakery

Why terrorists targetted Pune's German Bakery

By Rohan Jagan
Last updated on: February 13, 2010 22:22 IST
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German Bakery, where terrorists set off an explosion on Saturday evening killing eight,  is one of Pune's most iconic spots. Koregaon Park, the suburb where the bakery is situated, is the most cosmopolitan and upmarket area in Pune.

Koregaon Park houses the famous Osho Ahram which is only a lane away from the German Bakery where the blast took place.

Its proximity to Chabad house, the Jewish prayer house, in Pune could have been a factor behind the blast. The bakery was only metres away from the Chabad house in Koregaon Park. By setting off a blast at the bakery, terrorists could have well sent a grim message to foreigners as well as Jews.

German Bakery is an institution drawing large numbers. The bakery was famous for its rolls and cakes.

Koregaon Park has always had a high proportion of foreign nationals residing there, both the Osho ashram and German Bakery serving as magnets. A large number of expats and foreign students also reside in the area.

The bakery is located close to many sensitive army establishments, and the headquarters of the army's Southern Command  are located near the blast site.

American terror suspect David Headley had also visited Pune and done a recce of the area.

The bakery has two entrances and is always crowded so for someone to slip away unnoticed is not really a problem.

North main road, where the bakery is located, is one of Pune's main shopping areas, and is choc-a- bloc with boutiques and eateries.

The area is a high traffic area and the time the bomb went off was the beginning of prime time in this part of town, as it was a Saturday night, the eve of Valentine's Day, and shoppers and youngsters would have just steped out.

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Rohan Jagan in Pune