The protest in Pithampur, Dhar's industrial area, against the toxic waste from the Bhopal gas tragedy is intensifying. The waste was recently transported 250 km from Bhopal to Pithampur following a High Court directive. Citizens fear environmental and health risks from burning this waste in the area.
Pithampur bandh gains support
The Pithampur Bandh, called by local groups on Friday, has received strong backing. Shops, including tea stalls, remained closed, while factories and public transport operated as usual. Protesters gathered at key locations, leading to clashes with the police, who used mild force to disperse the crowds.
Two protesters attempted self-immolation and are now hospitalised in Indore.
Political reactions
- Congress Criticism: Congress accused the BJP government of suppressing dissent, questioning the state's democratic values.
- Deputy CM's Defense: Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla assured that the waste is no longer harmful and accused Congress of politicising the issue.
Also Read: Union Carbide waste shifted to Dhar not poisonous: MP CM
Waste disposal process
The toxic waste from the Bhopal gas tragedy—337 tons—was transported in sealed containers to Pithampur. Officials stated the disposal process is safe, with ash to be scientifically tested and buried in a secure landfill. The state government emphasized stringent air filtration and monitoring to prevent pollution.
Local and regional opposition
- Public Concerns: Residents in Pithampur and nearby Indore have voiced fears about the waste's potential impact on the environment.
- Indore Mayor's Stand: Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava urged the state to reconsider the disposal plan and file a review petition.
- Historical Context: Bhopal Gas Tragedy
The Bhopal gas tragedy, one of the world's worst industrial disasters, occurred on December 2-3, 1984, due to a leak of methyl isocyanate gas from the Union Carbide factory. The disaster killed over 5,000 people and left thousands with long-term health issues.
State and expert statements
The Gas Relief and Rehabilitation Department dismissed claims of contamination from earlier waste disposal trials in 2015, stating that the process follows strict safety protocols. Meanwhile, Union Minister Savitri Thakur assured citizens that their concerns would be relayed to state authorities.
The protests in Pithampur reflect growing public distrust and demand for transparency in handling the toxic legacy of the Bhopal gas tragedy.
Also Read: 4 decades later, toxic Bhopal waste shifted for incineration
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