The Bhopal disaster continues to have a severe environmental impact on the surrounding area, even decades after the leak. Here's a breakdown of the key issues:

• Contaminated soil and water: Industrial waste from the plant, including the toxic gas methyl isocyanate (MIC), is still present on the site. This has seeped into the soil and groundwater, making it unsafe for drinking or irrigation. Reports suggest some areas have contamination levels exceeding safety standards.

• Impact on health: People living near the factory are exposed to these contaminants, leading to chronic health problems like cancers, birth defects, and respiratory issues.

• Limited cleanup efforts: The Indian government took over the site in 1998, but there haven't been significant efforts to remove the hazardous waste.

This ongoing environmental contamination poses a serious threat to the health and well-being of the Bhopal community.