Bhopal Gas Tragedy: Hazardous Waste Removal Begins After 4 Decades

Forty years after the devastating Bhopal gas tragedy, efforts to relocate around 337 tons of hazardous waste from the Union Carbide factory site began on Wednesday night. This step marks a significant move towards addressing the long-standing environmental concerns associated with the site.

The toxic waste is being transported to the Pithampur industrial area in Dhar district, located 250 km from Bhopal. The operation commenced at around 9 pm with twelve container trucks under tight security. "12 container trucks carrying the waste set off on a non-stop journey around 9 pm. A green corridor has been created for the vehicles which are expected to reach Pithampur industrial area in Dhar district in seven hours," said Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation Department Director Swatantra Kumar Singh.

Toxic Waste Disposal Process

Singh explained that if everything proceeds smoothly, incineration of the waste will occur within three months. If complications arise, it could extend to nine months. Initially, a portion of the waste will be incinerated at Pithampur's disposal unit, and the resulting ash will be tested for any remaining harmful substances.

To prevent air pollution, smoke from the incinerator will pass through special four-layer filters. Once confirmed free of toxic elements, the ash will be sealed with a two-layer membrane and buried to avoid soil and water contamination. Experts supervised by officials from both Central and State Pollution Control Boards will oversee this process.

Community Concerns and Official Assurances

Some local activists have raised concerns about potential pollution, citing a 2015 trial where 10 tons of Union Carbide waste were incinerated in Pithampur. They claim this led to soil and water contamination in nearby villages. However, Singh dismissed these claims, stating that thorough evaluations were conducted post-2015 tests before deciding on Pithampur as the disposal site.

A protest march was held on Sunday by residents of Pithampur against disposing of Union Carbide waste in their city, which has a population of approximately 1.75 lakh people. Despite these protests, Singh assured that there is no cause for concern regarding pollution risks.

Background: The Bhopal Gas Tragedy

The tragedy occurred when methyl isocyanate (MIC), a highly toxic gas, leaked from the Union Carbide pesticides factory on December 2-3, 1984. This disaster claimed 5,479 lives and left over five lakh individuals with health issues and disabilities. It remains one of history's worst industrial disasters.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court recently criticised authorities for not clearing the Union Carbide site despite Supreme Court orders. On December 3, they set a four-week deadline for waste removal and warned of contempt proceedings if not adhered to.