The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought a response from the Madhya Pradesh government regarding concerns over the disposal of hazardous chemical waste from the Bhopal Gas Tragedy site to Pithampur.
The court has directed the authorities to provide evidence demonstrating whether necessary precautions have been taken to ensure public safety.
A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih emphasized that it would not intervene unless the concerns raised by the petitioners were substantiated.
This issue arose in response to a Madhya Pradesh High Court order mandating the transportation and disposal of 337 metric tonnes of toxic waste from the defunct Union Carbide factory in Bhopal to a facility in Pithampur.
The Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing on February 27, coinciding with the state government’s planned trial disposal of 10 metric tonnes.
Court Questions Safety Measures
During the proceedings, the petitioner’s counsel argued that the disposal site in Pithampur is in proximity to residential areas, posing a significant risk of exposure to toxic gases. It was further highlighted that Tarapura village, home to 105 families, is located just 250 meters from the disposal facility, and no measures have been undertaken to relocate its residents.
Additionally, concerns were raised regarding potential contamination of the nearby Gambhir River, which could result in severe public health and environmental consequences.
Justice Gavai instructed the Madhya Pradesh government’s counsel to thoroughly review the petition and determine the validity of the concerns. He also stated that the state must either defer the trial run or furnish proof that comprehensive safety measures have been implemented.
“If something happens on February 27, it should not be a fait accompli,” remarked Justice Gavai, underscoring the necessity for the government to assure the Court that public safety remains uncompromised.
Background
This case originates from a 2004 Public Interest Litigation challenging the government’s failure to remediate the toxic waste left behind at the Union Carbide factory following the 1984 Bhopal Gas Tragedy.
On December 3, 2024, the Madhya Pradesh High Court criticized the authorities for their inaction in removing the waste even four decades after the disaster and ordered immediate clean-up efforts. Subsequently, on January 6, 2025, the High Court also instructed the media to refrain from disseminating misinformation regarding the disposal process.
The court took up the matter after the petitioner contended that the High Court issued its disposal directive without providing an advisory or ensuring adequate public safety measures.
The case is set to be heard again on February 27, 2025, when the state government is expected to submit its response.
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