Removal of Union Carbide factory waste erases the stigma of the gas tragedy from Bhopal; land to be managed properly now: CM Mohan Yadav

Bhopal. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav described the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy as the greatest example of tampering with nature. He stated that this horrific incident caused immense harm to both citizens and the environment.

CM Yadav was addressing an event organized on the occasion of World Environment Day, where the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0’ (A Tree in Mother’s Name 2.0) campaign was launched. CM Yadav said, “The Bhopal gas tragedy is the biggest example of tampering with nature. It was the most horrific incident that caused the greatest damage to ordinary citizens and the environment.”

Successful disposal of factory waste
The Chief Minister informed that his government has disposed of the waste lying at the Union Carbide factory after 40 years. He further added, “This has erased the stigma of the gas tragedy from the land of Bhopal. Now, the state government is moving towards the proper management of the Union Carbide land.”

It is worth noting that on the night of December 2-3, 1984, highly toxic methyl isocyanate gas leaked from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal. At least 5,479 people died, and thousands were left disabled. It is considered one of the world’s worst industrial tragedies.

Co-existence of green energy and wildlife
CM Yadav stated that several significant initiatives are being undertaken to promote clean and green energy in the state. The Chief Minister mentioned that work on solar, wind, biomass, and hydroelectric projects for green energy is progressing rapidly, with major projects underway in Sanchi, Khajuraho, and other locations.

Highlighting the state’s excellent example of co-existence alongside wildlife conservation, Yadav affirmed that the state government is committed to protecting the environment and wildlife. He mentioned that, in addition to bringing leopards to the state, wild buffaloes have also been brought from Assam.

He said, “The fundamental concept of environmental conservation is rooted in our Sanatan culture. The importance of each element—essential for preserving this creation made of the five elements—is reflected in our rituals of worship, dietary habits, and prayers. In Sanatan culture, a single tree is considered equal to ten sons; environmental conservation is thus woven into our lifestyle.”

Yadav stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state government is working with full commitment towards environmental conservation. He noted that the sacred task of conserving rivers, wells, stepwells, and ponds is currently underway in the state under the ‘Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan’.

Several dignitaries were present on the occasion, including Minister of State for Forest and Environment Dilip Ahirwar and Additional Chief Secretary of the Forest and Environment Department Ashok Barnwal. Ahirwar emphasized that protecting air, water, and trees is crucial for safeguarding the environment.