Bhopal gas leak in pictures: 40 years since the tragedy killed thousands in India

Forty years ago, an American area became the webpage of one of the world’s worst business disasters.

On the day of 2 December, 1984, a poisonous oil leaked from Union Carbide India’s chemical plant in Bhopal, enveloping the central American city in a dangerous clouds which killed hundreds and poisoned about half-a-million people.

According to federal quotes, around 3, 500 people died within days of the gas leak and more than 15, 000 in the decades since. However, activists claim that there are still more fatalities and that poisoning-related side effects are common among patients.

Seven original plant managers were found guilty in an American court in 2010 and given minor fines and brief prison terms. Given the magnitude of the drama, many subjects and politicians claim that justice has n’t been served.

Dow Chemicals purchased Union Carbide in 1999 as a US business.

Warning: This history contains information and images that some readers may find disconcerting.