Madhya Pradesh Govt Launches Drive To Dispel Myths On UCC Waste Cleanup

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): In an effort to build public confidence and address concerns over the incineration of Union Carbide Corporation (UCC) chemical waste at REEL in Pithampur, the state government has initiated a campaign aimed at factory workers.

Following the High Court's order on January 6, the government has started engaging with industry management in the area and a meeting has already been held. The Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation Department (BGTRRD), in coordination with the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (MPCB), will hold a series of meetings with major industry associations in Pithampur.

For smaller industries, information camps will be organised to directly educate workers and dispel myths about the incineration process. Factory workers in Pithampur, many of whom are migrants, are the primary focus of this outreach initiative.

The government believes that addressing concerns at this level is crucial for building trust and clarifying any misconceptions. Sandeep Yadav, Principal Secretary of Gas Relief, told Free Press that the government’s approach is rooted in scientific data. "We will present the facts to people, based on scientific evidence, to clarify any doubts about the UCC chemical waste incineration process," he said.

The government had previously requested a six-week period to submit a compliance report, following the High Court's order for UCC’s cleanup by the 40th anniversary of the Bhopal gas tragedy in December 2024.

The government had already removed 337 MT of chemical waste from the site on January 1, 2024, and is now focused on ensuring transparency and addressing the public’s concerns as part of the cleanup efforts.