Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The NGOs advocating for the rights of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy survivors said that it is a matter of concern that the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) will not be able to measure particulate matter 2.5 during the incineration of chemical waste of Union Carbide Corporation (UCC) in Pithampur.
PM2.5 is air pollutant that consists of particles which are 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter and dangerous as it gets deeper into lungs and bloodstream.
The pollution board in its report of the UCC waste incineration trial in 2015 had stated that the board had monitored PM10 while checking the ambient air quality at three stations including Tarpura village- one of 20 villages around REEL, Pithampur, said Bhopal Gas Information and Action (BGIA) Rachna Dhingra.
“The trial report of CPCB states that it merely monitored Particulate Matter (PM10) and not PM2.5 which is more dangerous,” the activist said. Dr Lokendra Dave, pulmonary medicine HOD Gandhi Medical College (GMC), explained, “Particles that are 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter.
These particles are so small that billions of them can fit inside a red blood cell. PM2.5 is associated with the most adverse health effects from air pollution.
PM2.5 can cause premature mortality, asthma attacks, bronchitis, and respiratory symptoms. He cautioned that children, older adults, and people with asthma are most likely to experience adverse health issues from PM2.5 exposure.
These particles are 10 micrometers or less in diameter and can pass through the nose and throat and enter the lungs. PM10 can cause serious health effects to the heart and lungs.”
Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Relief Department (BGTRRD) had transported 337 MT UCC waste to REEL, Pithampur, for incineration. Six weeks time has been given by HC to build confidence and dispel myths amidst intense protest over air pollution due to proposed incineration of UCC waste.
