Supreme Court Scrutinizes Hazardous Waste Disposal from Bhopal Tragedy

The Supreme Court examined the disposal of hazardous waste from the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy, questioning the authorities' move to dispose of it near Indore. The tragic event resulted in 5,479 deaths. The court sought responses from the Centre, Madhya Pradesh, and its pollution control board, highlighting concerns over residents' health.

The Supreme Court is set to review the contentious disposal of hazardous waste from the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy, a catastrophic event that claimed 5,479 lives. On Monday, the court called upon the Centre, the Madhya Pradesh government, and its pollution control board to provide their responses regarding the safety and legality of the waste disposal method.

Originating from the now-defunct Union Carbide factory, the waste weighing approximately 377 tonnes was shifted to Pithampur industrial area, perilously close to Indore. This measure has raised significant health concerns for residents of nearby areas, including Indore, prompting legal scrutiny over compliance with constitutional rights to a healthy environment.

Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih will hear a plea on the authorities' approach following orders from the Madhya Pradesh High Court. Despite directives and legal developmental, critics argue that the prolonged inaction and lack of transparency jeopardize the health and safety of numerous inhabitants living near the disposal site.