Question : TOXIC WASTE LYING IN AND AROUND UNION CARBIDE FACTORY, BHOPAL

(a) whether the Government is aware that large quantities of extremely toxic waste is still lying in and around the Union Carbide factory, Bhopal;

(b) if so, whether said toxic waste continues to pollute the soil and water causing continuing damage to the residents;

(c) if so, whether any scientific evaluation has been undertaken by the Government about the quantity and nature of toxic wastes and their continuing ill effects on nearby population; and

(d) if so, the steps taken by the Government for speedily dispose off toxic waste ?

MINISTER OF STEEL (SHRI RAM VILAS PASWAN)

(a) As per the information received from the Government of Madhya Pradesh, some hazardous waste material is lying in the premises of the Union Carbide Factory at Bhopal.

(b) The Government of Madhya Pradesh has intimated that the residents of the said area are being supplied safe drinking water through water tankers by the Municipal Corporation, Bhopal hence there is no question of any damage to the residents of said area.

(c) Yes, scientific studies were undertaken to ascertain the nature and quantity of the hazardous waste.

(d) As intimated by the Madhya Pradesh Government the proposal for speedy disposal of toxic wastes will be put up in the next meeting of the Group of Ministers related to Bhopal Gas Tragedy matters.