CM Dr. Mohan Yadav inspects Union Carbide site in Bhopal, confirms safe disposal of toxic waste, and plans memorial for gas tragedy victims.

Bhopal: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav described the Bhopal Gas Tragedy of the night of 2–3 December 1984, caused by the leakage of Methyl Isocyanate (MIC) gas, as one of the most horrific disasters in India, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives. He highlighted that chemical waste remained at the Union Carbide factory site for nearly four decades. Under the guidance of the Hon’ble High Court, the State Government has now safely disposed of this toxic waste without harming the environment or human life.

The Chief Minister stated that the government will consult all sections of society and affected stakeholders before moving ahead with the development of the Union Carbide factory campus, which will include a memorial to honor the victims of the tragedy. Dr. Yadav reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of gas victims, emphasizing that no effort will be spared in their support.

On Saturday, Dr. Yadav conducted a detailed inspection of the Union Carbide campus in Arif Nagar, Bhopal. He discussed plans for the memorial with officials from the Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation Department. Senior officials present included Secretary to the CM Alok Kumar Singh, PR Commissioner Deepak Kumar Saxena, Director Gas Relief Swatantra Kumar Singh, and Bhopal Municipal Commissioner Smt. Sanskruti Jain.

The Chief Minister stated that the chemical waste has now been safely removed, and arrangements are underway for the comprehensive development of the factory campus alongside the broader development of Bhopal. He noted that he is the first Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh to inspect the core area of the Union Carbide factory without a safety mask, demonstrating the safety of the site.

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Speaking to the media, Dr. Yadav described the 1984 gas leak as not only Madhya Pradesh’s but India’s worst gas disaster, recalling the tragic scenes that remain etched in memory. He criticized past governments for their negligence, including helping the factory owner Warren Anderson flee the country and failing to remove toxic waste even during the UPA government’s tenure. The Chief Minister emphasized that the current government, following all court directives, has successfully disposed of the hazardous waste using modern scientific methods, setting a global example.

Dr. Yadav also highlighted ongoing coordination with the Central Government for urban development and good governance. Plans for constructing the memorial and other development projects will proceed after consultation with stakeholders under the guidance of the High Court. Bhopal and six surrounding districts will be developed as part of a metropolitan region, alongside efforts to remove obstacles and accelerate city development.

During his visit, the Chief Minister also paused his convoy at the request of a local woman performing a prayer at Arif Nagar. He offered incense sticks to Lord Bholenath, interacted with local women about government schemes such as ‘Ladli Behna’, and assured beneficiaries that they were receiving payments. He also met school students, took selfies, and approved financial assistance of ₹50,000 each on the spot for two women, instructing officials to ensure immediate disbursement of the funds.