Bhopal Gas Tragedy at 40: Not just methyl isocyanate, other unknown compounds also played a significant role in long-term health impacts on survivors, 2010 ICMR study found

Sub :Env

Sec : Pollution

Bhopal Gas Tragedy:

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy was one of the worst industrial disasters in history, which occurred on the night of December 2-3, 1984, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

Incident Overview:

A deadly gas leak occurred at the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) pesticide plant
Methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas was released into the atmosphere
Approximately 40 tons of toxic gas spread across the nearby residential areas

Findings from ICMR Study (2010):

MIC caused N-carbamoylation and S-carbamoylation of proteins and tissues, permanently altering their structure and function.
- ‘Carbamoylation’ occurs when a chemical like MIC reacts with proteins, enzymes, or other biological compounds, altering their structure and function permanently.
It impacted vital proteins like haemoglobin, impairing oxygen transport.
Reduced effectiveness of glutathione, a critical antioxidant, increasing vulnerability to damage.
Survivors faced irreversible physiological disruptions, leading to long-term health issues.
Initial Mismanagement:
- Autopsies on victims revealed signs of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) poisoning, but initial denial by Union Carbide delayed antidotal treatments.
- Administration of sodium thiosulfate (NATS) showed effectiveness but was delayed, limiting benefits.
- Victims suffered severe organ damage and long-term health issues, including chronic asthma, vision problems, and mental health disorders.

Toxic Waste Disposal Issues:

Remaining Waste:
- 337 MT of toxic waste collected in 2005 remains undisposed on the UCIL premises.
- An additional 11 lakh tonnes of contaminated soil, 1 tonne of mercury, and 150 tonnes of underground dumps remain unaddressed.
Delayed Action:
- ₹126 crore was released in 2023 for waste disposal, but implementation is yet to start.
- Groundwater and soil contamination continue to spread, affecting nearby residents.
Previous Efforts:
- In 2005, a portion of waste was incinerated, but most remained stored on-site.
- Recommendations from a peer review committee (2010) and oversight committee (2023) for reassessment and remediation remain unimplemented.

Impact of Contamination:

Groundwater Pollution:
- Groundwater in nearby residential areas is contaminated with heavy metals and toxic substances, increasing cancer risks.
- The government has sealed hand pumps and tube wells in affected areas, yet residents still use groundwater for non-drinking purposes.
Court and Activist Responses:
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) and courts have criticized the authorities for their inaction.
- Activists report that contamination is spreading, creating new victims every day.

Source: DTE