Mon Jan 13 07:25:14 UTC 2025: **Madhya Pradesh Launches Awareness Campaign After Union Carbide Waste Disposal Protests**
DHAR, Madhya Pradesh – Following public outcry and protests over the disposal of 337 tonnes of Union Carbide factory waste in Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh authorities have initiated a public awareness campaign. The waste, transported from the defunct Bhopal factory on January 2nd, sparked concerns about environmental and health risks.
Fifty master trainers, including science teachers and officials, began training on Monday, January 13th, to educate the public about the waste’s purportedly non-hazardous nature. This initiative follows a Madhya Pradesh High Court order granting the state six weeks to address the issue according to safety guidelines. The campaign will involve presentations and other outreach efforts starting Tuesday, with an additional 50 trainers to be recruited.
Initial protests, including two self-immolation attempts, led the state government to take a more proactive approach. Dhar Collector Priyank Mishra stated that the goal is to dispel misinformation and alleviate public fears surrounding the waste disposal. The waste, contained in 12 sealed containers, was moved to Pithampur, a town with over 700 factories, located approximately 250 kilometers from the state capital. The move comes after a December 2024 High Court order mandating the removal of the waste within four weeks.
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