Supreme Court Seeks Update on Bhopal Gas Tragedy Waste Disposal

The Supreme Court has requested information on safety measures for disposing hazardous waste related to the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy. The case involves concerns over risks to nearby residents. Authorities are required to address these concerns and report compliance, following a trial disposal scheduled by the Madhya Pradesh High Court.

The Supreme Court has requested an update from authorities regarding precautions for the disposal of hazardous waste from the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy. The waste is currently being stored in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh.

A bench led by Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih addressed this after a petition was filed citing risks to local residents. Previously, the Madhya Pradesh High Court had permitted a trial run for waste disposal beginning February 27, prompting the plea for urgent listing.

The court had asked for responses from the Centre and state government regarding concerns about the health and safety of people living near the disposal site. The high court had earlier rebuked authorities for delays, setting deadlines and warning of contempt proceedings. The trial disposal involves 377 tonnes of waste relocated from the defunct Union Carbide factory.