Tensions have escalated in the industrial town of Pithampur, Madhya Pradesh, as the arrival of 337 tonnes of toxic waste from the site of one of the world's worst industrial disasters has sparked widespread protests. Shivnarayan Dasana, a 60-year-old vegetable vendor in the nearby village of Tarapur, witnessed a heavy police presence like never before since the waste containers arrived three weeks ago.

The waste, transported from the now-defunct Union Carbide factory in Bhopal—the site of the 1984 gas leak that killed thousands—has caused significant concern among the local population. Many fear that the disposal of this hazardous material near their homes could lead to environmental disasters and public health risks.

Protests broke out on January 3, the day after the waste arrived, quickly escalating into stone-throwing and attempts at self-immolation. As the protests grew, the police increased their presence, turning Tarapur and nearby areas into a virtual garrison. Since then, authorities have registered seven cases against more than 100 people involved in the unrest. Despite heavy law enforcement, residents continue to voice their concerns at local meetings about the environmental and health risks posed by the industrial pollution.

The toxic waste contains hazardous materials, including pesticide residue and "forever chemicals"—a class of toxic substances known for retaining their dangerous properties indefinitely. These chemicals have been seeping into the environment for decades, contributing to health hazards for the people living around the Bhopal factory.

In response to the protests, local officials have tried to reassure the public. Swatantra Kumar Singh, a senior official overseeing the disposal process, explained that the waste would be incinerated at temperatures of 1,200°C (2,192°F). The process will involve initial test batches, followed by larger batches over the next three months, contingent on safe toxicity levels. To address concerns about air pollution, Singh outlined a four-layer filtration system to purify any emissions, while the incinerator’s residue will be sealed and buried in a specialized landfill to prevent contamination of soil and groundwater.

Additionally, the state government has ramped up efforts to build public trust, training 100 "master trainers" and holding informational sessions to explain the process to local communities. Madhya Pradesh's Chief Minister, Mohan Yadav, defended the disposal plan, calling it safe and necessary. He emphasized that the disposal had been approved by the courts and encouraged residents to express their concerns through legal channels.

Despite government assurances, opinions among environmental experts remain divided. Some, like Subhash C. Pandey, believe that the incineration process, if done properly, poses no significant environmental risk. Others, such as environmentalist Shyamala Mani, have voiced concerns over the incineration process, arguing that it could release harmful toxins like mercury and dioxins. Mani suggests that bioremediation—using microorganisms to break down toxic substances—could provide a more eco-friendly alternative.

As the debate continues, the people of Pithampur remain deeply skeptical about the safety of the disposal process and its potential impact on their health and environment.