Union Carbide’s Toxic Legacy: 40 Years Later, Waste Set for Disposal
Bhopal/Indore, Dec 29 (PTI): After decades of legal battles and environmental concerns, the hazardous waste from the infamous Union Carbide factory in Bhopal is finally being moved for disposal. On Sunday, operations commenced to transport 377 metric tonnes of toxic waste to an incineration site near Indore, approximately 250 km away.
This development follows a stern directive from the Madhya Pradesh High Court, which criticized the authorities for their prolonged inaction despite repeated orders from both the Supreme Court and itself. The court warned that continued negligence could lead to another disaster akin to the 1984 gas tragedy, which claimed 5,479 lives and affected over half a million people.
On the morning of the operation, GPS-equipped trucks with specially reinforced containers arrived at the factory site. Workers in protective gear, along with officials from the Bhopal Municipal Corporation and environmental agencies, were seen coordinating the removal process. Police were deployed to ensure security around the site.
The toxic waste will be transported to Pithampur, where it will be incinerated. The High Court has set a four-week deadline for the completion of this task, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Swatantra Kumar Singh, Director of the Gas Relief and Rehabilitation Department, assured that a ‘green corridor’ would be established to facilitate the swift and safe transport of the waste. He refrained from providing a specific timeline but indicated that the process could begin imminently, with completion expected by January 3.
The incineration process will be closely monitored, with emissions filtered through a four-layer system to prevent air pollution. Once incinerated, the ash will be securely buried to prevent environmental contamination.
Despite assurances, local residents and activists have expressed concerns, citing past instances of pollution following similar disposal efforts. On Sunday, a protest rally was held in Pithampur, with participants demanding a reevaluation of air quality before proceeding with the waste destruction.
Goutam Kothari, President of the Pithampur Industrial Organisation, expressed confidence in the safety measures but warned of protests if any incidents occur during the disposal process.
The situation remains tense as the deadline approaches, with all eyes on the authorities to ensure a safe and effective resolution to this decades-old environmental crisis.
