Traditional GK

Introduction -

On December 3, 1984, more than 40 tons of methyl isocyanate gas leaked from a pesticide plant in Bhopal, India. The company, responsible for the immediate loss of at least 3,800 lives as a result of the tragedy, quickly tried to distance itself from legal liability, but eventually accepted moral responsibility at the mediation of the Indian Supreme Court. Despite the $470 million compensation settlement, this amount proved insufficient due to underestimation of both long-term health effects and the extent of exposure.

The Bhopal disaster underscored the urgent need for internationally enforceable standards in environmental safety, proactive measures to prevent similar disasters, and robust preparedness for industrial emergencies. Since then, India has undergone rapid industrialization, with some positive changes in government policies and selective industrial practices. However, the nation continues to struggle with significant environmental threats arising from hasty and inadequately regulated industrial expansion. Uncontrolled growth has led to massive environmental degradation, which has exacerbated adverse health outcomes for Indian citizens.

Overview of Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Background:

UCIL, a pesticide manufacturing plant, manufactures carbaryl using methyl isocyanate (MIC), a highly toxic chemical. The plant, partly owned by Union Carbide Corporation, was chosen by MIC despite costlier alternatives. The toxicity of MIC led to unease among Bhopal residents, prompting an exodus from the area.

Causes of Bhopal Gas Tragedy:

1. Plant security systems for MIC management were inoperative with faulty alarm systems.
2. Maintenance problems plague valves, lines, and vent gas scrubbers, essential to safety.
3. Tank E610 exceeds safety regulations by holding more than 30 tonnes of MIC.
4. During late-night maintenance, water ingress probably caused an exothermic reaction, resulting in the release of gas.

Impact of Bhopal Gas Tragedy:

1. Thousands died from suffocation, pulmonary edema and circulatory collapse.
2. Neonatal mortality increased by 200%.
3. Wildlife has suffered massive casualties, pollution is killing trees and reducing food supplies.
4. Economic problems were exacerbated by the ban on fishing.
5. The Bhopal Gas Leak Accident Act of March 1985 empowered the Indian government to represent victims worldwide.
6. More than 200,000 young people were exposed to the gas, overwhelmingly prepared hospitals.
7. The impact of the tragedy reverberated through Bhopal's society and ecosystem, indicating the disastrous consequences of industrial neglect.

Conclusion

The enduring legacy of the Bhopal gas tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of rapid industrialization, especially in developing countries like India. This catastrophic event highlights the dire consequences on human life, the environment and the economy. Although India's economic growth continues to advance, it does so at the expense of environmental sustainability and public welfare.