Sun Jan 05 12:38:22 UTC 2025: ## Bhopal Gas Tragedy Waste Removal Underway Amidst Protests and Rumors
**DHAR, Madhya Pradesh, January 5, 2025** – The removal and incineration of 337 metric tonnes of toxic waste from the Union Carbide factory, linked to the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy, is underway in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh, despite ongoing protests and the spread of misinformation.
Authorities confirmed on Sunday that all containers of hazardous waste had arrived safely at the Ramky Enviro Company for incineration, dismissing social media rumors claiming a container had gone missing. Following these rumors, local residents and elected representatives inspected the site and verified the presence of all containers. Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Pramod Singh Gurjar urged residents to ignore such misinformation.
Protests erupted in Pithampur on Friday, leading to a bandh and stone-pelting incidents at the incineration facility on Saturday. Consequently, prohibitory orders under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Surakhsa Sanhita (BNSS) have been imposed until January 12th. Five cases have been registered against protestors opposing the waste disposal.
The Madhya Pradesh government, facing a December 3rd High Court deadline to dispose of the waste, has announced its intention to seek an extension. Chief Secretary Anurag Jain stated that the government will request more time to complete the process scientifically and with community buy-in. The High Court is scheduled to hear the matter again on January 6th.
The removal of the waste is a significant step in addressing the long-standing environmental and health concerns stemming from the Bhopal gas tragedy, which resulted in at least 5,479 deaths and thousands of long-term health issues. The ongoing protests highlight the deep-seated anxieties and mistrust surrounding the disposal process within the affected communities.
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