Bhopal Disaster

Setting the scene

The Bhopal disaster occurred December 2-3, 1984, in Bhopal, India, when methyl isocyanate gas leaked from a Union Carbide pesticide plant, killing thousands. The leak began around midnight when water entered a tank, causing a runaway reaction. The gas cloud spread over shantytowns near the plant.

What happened

Official death toll is 3,787 immediate deaths, but estimates range to 15,000-20,000 over time, with 500,000 injured. It remains the world's worst industrial disaster. Union Carbide paid $470 million in 1989 settlement, widely seen as inadequate. The plant's safety systems were disabled to save money.

Why it still matters

Bhopal exposed dangers of hazardous industries in developing countries and weak regulation. The disaster led to stricter chemical safety laws worldwide but justice remains elusive—survivors still suffer health effects, and the site remains contaminated. December 3 is remembered as a warning about corporate negligence.

Background

Corporate liability debates followed.