Bhopal's Toxic Legacy: High Court Demands Action

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has instructed the state to remove toxic waste from the defunct Union Carbide factory in Bhopal, 40 years after the gas disaster. Authorities are urged to act promptly to prevent another tragedy. The removal and safe disposal of waste must be completed within weeks.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has issued a mandate to the state government for the prompt disposal of hazardous waste at the defunct Union Carbide factory in Bhopal, citing a persistent state of inertia that could lead to another disaster.

The court described the current situation as a 'sorry state of affairs' and ordered the removal and transportation of the toxic waste within four weeks. A failure to comply will result in contempt proceedings.

The directive follows decades of inertia since the 1984 gas leak tragedy, emphasizing the need for public safety and immediate action. The compliance report is due by January 6, 2025.

(With inputs from agencies.)