Is the Disposal of Bhopal's Toxic Waste Finally Underway?
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Synopsis
After years of waiting, the disposal of 307 tonnes of toxic waste from the Bhopal gas tragedy has finally begun in Pithampur. With strict monitoring systems and environmental safeguards in place, this operation marks a significant step towards addressing decades of industrial contamination.
Key Takeaways
- The disposal of 307 tonnes of toxic waste from the Bhopal gas tragedy has started.
- Incineration is proceeding at 270 kg per hour.
- Four key pollutants are being monitored throughout the process.
- Judicial directives are guiding the disposal efforts.
- Community concerns over secondary pollution are being raised.
Bhopal, May 6 (NationPress) After years of uncertainty, the disposal of 307 tonnes of toxic waste (previously 347 tonnes) from the notorious Bhopal gas tragedy has commenced in Pithampur.
The Madhya Pradesh High Court had previously issued orders regarding this.
"The process started on Monday evening," a senior official from the MP Pollution Control Board informed IANS, noting, "Incineration is progressing at a consistent pace of 270 kilograms per hour at the facility, with strict environmental precautions in place.
A continuous online monitoring system has been established to track emissions, guaranteeing adherence to pollution control standards. The entire process is expected to take 50-55 days or possibly a few extra days.
The toxic waste is being incinerated at a private facility.
To further reduce environmental risks, experts are closely monitoring four significant pollutants - particulate mercury, heavy matter, hydrogen chloride, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide - released during the incineration.
"In addition, air quality monitoring stations have been set up at three locations in Pithampur (near Indore). In addition to the existing station in Tarpura, new sites in Chirakhan and Bajrangpura became operational on May 4 to enhance monitoring.
The 1984 Bhopal gas disaster resulted in thousands of fatalities and numerous injuries when a toxic gas, methyl-isocyanate, leaked from the factory on the night of December 2-3, 1984.
The toxic waste had remained in the factory since that time.
"Four monitoring systems have been put in place," the official stated.
The toxic waste, which had been abandoned at the former Union Carbide facility for nearly four decades, was finally transported to Pithampur from Bhopal in January 2025. Following judicial directives, a phased trial run was conducted before large-scale disposal commenced, marking a crucial advancement in the long-term battle against industrial pollution.
After a trial incineration, the Madhya Pradesh government submitted a status update to the High Court in Jabalpur, detailing its successful completion. Officials informed the court that the incineration process, expected to take 72 days, would be conducted under stringent guidelines from the Central Pollution Control Board to safeguard public health.
Despite these assurances, activists representing Bhopal gas tragedy survivors have expressed concerns about secondary pollution. They argue that burning 300 metric tonnes of toxic waste could generate nearly 900 metric tonnes of residue, which may worsen environmental risks if disposed of in landfills. With the next court hearing set for June 30, discussions about the long-term ecological implications of the waste disposal continue.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the importance of this development in Bhopal. The disposal of toxic waste not only addresses a long-standing environmental issue but also reflects the ongoing commitment of authorities to uphold public safety. That said, the concerns raised by activists regarding secondary pollution must be taken seriously, ensuring that the actions taken today do not create challenges for tomorrow.
NationPress
06/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of toxic waste disposal in Bhopal?
The disposal of 307 tonnes of toxic waste from the Bhopal gas tragedy has begun in Pithampur, following decades of uncertainty and judicial directives.
How long will the incineration process take?
The incineration process is expected to last between 50-55 days, with strict environmental regulations in place.
What pollutants are being monitored during disposal?
Experts are monitoring particulate mercury, heavy matter, hydrogen chloride, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide during the incineration process.
What are the concerns raised by activists?
Activists have raised concerns about potential secondary pollution, arguing that burning toxic waste could generate significant residue, posing further environmental risks.
When is the next court hearing regarding this issue?
The next court hearing is scheduled for June 30, where discussions about the ecological impact of waste disposal will continue.
