National Pollution Control Day: Know How It's Linked With The Bhopal Gas Tragedy

National Pollution Control Day: Know How It's Linked With The Bhopal Gas Tragedy

National Pollution Control Day is observed every year on December 2 to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy in 1984.

Sunanda SinghUpdated: Tuesday, December 02, 2025, 01:04 PM IST
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National Pollution Control Day | Canva

National Pollution Control Day honours the people who lost their lives in the Bhopal Gas Tragedy on December 2, 1984. The day raises awareness related to pollution and its impact on our daily lives. This annual occasion serves as a nationwide appeal to safeguard lives, embrace healthier practices, and insist on enhanced environmental responsibility.

The Bhopal Gas Tragedy

A chemical leak from a pesticide plant in Madhya Pradesh's capital, Bhopal, resulted in the deadly Bhopal Gas Tragedy. The horrific incident occurred on December 2, 1984, which turned the city into a gas chamber and killed around 15,00 to 20,000 people immediately after the toxic methyl isocyanate (MIC) gas leaked and spread in the atmosphere.

After the incident, half of the million people in the city suffered from numerous health issues, including respiratory problems, blindness, reproductive health issues, and much more.

40 years have passed, but survivors continue to experience reproductive health issues and disease of the nervous system.

Bhopal Gas Tragedy

Bhopal Gas Tragedy | ANI

National Pollution Control Day's 2025 Theme

This day reminds us to take steps against pollution. This year's theme is, 'Sustainable Living for a Greener Future'. The day is observed across the nation to raise awareness by educating people about different types of pollution. It also hints at the need for strict rules and regulations along with safety measures for industries and factories.

Pollution, a major effect

Pollution is a severe problem faced worldwide. There are different types of pollution including water pollution, air pollution, noise pollution, and soil pollution. There's also light and thermal pollution. The UN has called air pollution an environmental risk. It is the world's fourth most lethal killer, causing 8.9 million deaths each year.