Bhopal, Jun 5 (PTI) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Friday termed the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy as the biggest example of tampering with nature, adding that the horrific incident had harmed citizens and the environment the most.
Highly toxic methyl isocyanate gas leaked from the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal on the night of December 2-3, 1984. At least 5,479 people were killed and thousands were maimed. It is considered one of the world’s worst industrial disasters.
Yadav was addressing a programme on the occasion of World Environment Day, where the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 2.0’ was launched.
“Bhopal gas tragedy is the biggest example of tampering with nature. It was the most horrific incident that harmed the common citizens and the environment the most,” Yadav said while pointing out that his government successfully disposed of the waste lying at the Union Carbide factory after 40 years.
“This has erased the stigma of the gas tragedy from the land of Bhopal. Now the state government is moving forward towards proper management of the Union Carbide land,” he added.
Yadav said many important initiatives are being undertaken to promote clean and green energy in the state.
Work is progressing rapidly on solar, wind, biomass, and hydropower projects for green energy, with major projects underway in Sanchi, Khajuraho and other locations, the CM said.
Referring to the state setting the best example of coexistence with wildlife conservation, Yadav said the state government is committed to conservation of the environment and wildlife. In addition to the relocation of leopards to the state, wild buffaloes have also been brought from Assam, he added.
“The fundamental concept of environmental protection is inherent in our Sanatan culture. The importance of each element for preservation of the universe, composed of five elements, is present in our rituals of worship, food, and prayer. In Sanatan culture, one tree is considered equivalent to ten sons. Environmental protection is reflected in our way of life,” he said.
The state government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is working with full commitment to environmental protection, Yadav said.
Under the Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan, sacred work is underway to conserve rivers, wells, stepwells, and ponds in the state, Yadav said.
Minister of State for Forests and Environment Dilip Ahirwar and Additional Chief Secretary for Forests and Environment Ashok Barnwal, among others, were present on the occasion.
Ahirwar said saving air, water, and trees is essential for environmental protection.
“Under the leadership of PM Modi and CM Yadav, the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ has been successful. It has established new dimensions of public participation,” the minister said. PTI MAS BNM
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