Decades later: Union Carbide waste finally incinerated
Nearly 40 years after the Bhopal gas tragedy, 19 tons of toxic soil from the old Union Carbide site has finally been incinerated in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh.
This is a big step in addressing the long-standing pollution left behind by one of history's worst industrial disasters, which killed thousands back in 1984.
Emissions stayed within safe limits during process
The Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board says this latest cleanup is part of ongoing efforts to manage leftover hazardous waste.
Along with the soil, about 2.22 tons of old packaging (mostly iron drums) were also destroyed.
Officials assure that emissions stayed within safe limits during the process and that all safety protocols were followed—even as some locals voiced concerns.
The resulting ash will be safely sealed and stored in a new landfill cell, with tests confirming no dangerous chemicals like methyl isocyanate or radioactive material remain.