What hazardous substance were people exposed to during the Bhopal disaster?

The Bhopal disaster, which occurred in December 1984, was a catastrophic industrial accident at a pesticide plant in Bhopal, India. The primary hazardous substance involved in this disaster was methyl isocyanate (MIC).

Methyl isocyanate is a highly toxic chemical that is used in the production of pesticides and other chemicals. During the incident, a leak of MIC resulted in the release of this harmful gas into the surrounding area, which led to immediate and severe health effects for the local population, including respiratory problems, eye irritation, and even fatalities. Over 500,000 people were exposed to the gas, leading to thousands of deaths and long-term health issues for survivors.

Understanding the specifics of this disaster is crucial for recognizing the impacts of hazardous materials in industrial settings and the importance of safety regulations in preventing such tragedies. Methyl isocyanate's role in the Bhopal disaster highlights the potential consequences of chemical exposure and the necessity for effective emergency response measures.