Priyanshu Tripathi and Ritika Hemwani
Institute for Excellence in Higher Education, Bhopal
Vishal Yadav
Gaya College, Gaya (Magadh University
Pagese, 175-187
The Bhopal Gas Tragedy of 1984 stands as a harrowing testament to the catastrophic
consequences of industrial negligence, regulatory failures, and corporate impunity.
Originating from the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) pesticide plant Bhopal, the
release of methyl isocyanate gas resulted in immediate loss of lives, with casualties
surpassing 3,800 individuals, and inflicted enduring health ramifications upon thousands
more. This research paper comprehensively examines the psychological impacts of
the tragedy on the environment, health, and socio-economic well-being of the affected
communities. Through a detailed review of literature and methodology, the study
assesses the level of chemical contamination in soil and water samples, investigates
the prevalence of psychological distress among survivors, and explores the
intergenerational effects of the disaster. The findings reveal alarming levels of
environmental contamination within the UCIL factory premises, with toxic chemicals
such as chlorinated benzene compounds and heavy metals polluting soil and
groundwater sources. In light of these findings, the paper calls for comprehensive
interventions and support systems that prioritize environmental remediation, physical
health and mental health support, socio-economic rehabilitation, and legal justice and
accountability.