5 Worst Industrial Disasters in the World

1. The Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984)

Number of deaths: 3,800

The Bhopal gas tragedy was a result of 45 tons of toxic gas that leaked from a pesticide plant (UCIL). It is said to be one of the worst industrial disasters, which killed thousands of people. Taking place on the night of 2-3 December 1984, this tragedy took place at the Carbide India Limited (UCIL) plant. There were around 18,000 US gals of E610, E611, and E619 nestled underneath the facility. The disaster basically took place when several tanks containing 42 tons of MIC gas malfunctioned. Consequently, there was a leak in the E610 tank, causing tons of MIC to escape, wreaking havoc instantly.

To this day, toxic chemicals leak into the groundwater and soil around the vicinity. Many of the surviving victims were left with disorders like respiratory problems, cancer, and kidney disease.

This disaster led to many economic losses, including 650 people losing their jobs, and 75% of Bhopal people unable to work to this day due to health issues like chemical eye burns. Many local businesses and state offices closed, causing businesses to lose around $8-65 million. The UCIL plant itself, which was a $25 million investment, was shut down.

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