A recent gas leak, originating from a styrene plant owned by the South Korean electronics corporation LG, has severely impacted five villages in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The leak may have been caused due to the stagnation and temperature fluctuations within the storage tank, inducing an auto-polymerization chemical reaction and subsequent vaporization of the styrene.
Understanding Styrene: Properties and Uses
Styrene is a benzene derivative with the chemical formula C8H8. In factories, it is stored as a liquid but is highly volatile and becomes gas quickly, necessitating storage at temperatures below 20°C. Various sources, including vehicle exhaust, cigarette smoke, as well as natural foods like fruits and vegetables, produce styrene.
This flammable liquid finds extensive application in the production of polystyrene plastics, fiberglass, rubber, and latex.
Health Risks Associated With Styrene Exposure
Exposure to styrene poses numerous health risks, both short-term and long-term. In the short term, it can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, mucous membrane irritation, and gastrointestinal issues. Long-term exposure, on the other hand, can substantially affect the central nervous system and lead to related complications, such as peripheral neuropathy, cancer, and depression. However, research hasn’t yet found sufficient evidence to link styrene exposure with an increased risk of leukemia and lymphoma.
Chemical Disaster Risk Status in India
As per the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the country has witnessed over 130 significant chemical accidents in recent years. Plus, thousands of hazardous factories and unorganized sectors dealing with a wide range of dangerous materials contribute to serious and multifaceted disaster risks. The NDMA has identified over 1861 Major Accident Hazard (MAH) units across 301 districts and 25 states and three Union Territories in the country.
Legal Framework to Address Chemical Disasters in India
Before the infamous Bhopal Gas Tragedy of 1984, the Indian Penal Code was the primary law addressing criminal liability for such incidents. However, post the tragedy, several laws were enacted to provide relief and regulate industries.
The Bhopal Gas Leak (Processing of Claims) Act, 1985, empowers the central government to expedite and equitably address claims connected with the Bhopal gas tragedy. The Environment Protection Act, 1986, enables the central government to regulate industrial units and implement measures for environmental improvement.
The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991 provides insurance coverage to individuals affected by accidents resulting from hazardous substances handling. The National Environment Appellate Authority Act, 1997, establishes an appellate authority to hear appeals related to restrictions on industrial operations under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Following the establishment of the National Green Tribunal in 2010, cases related to environmental protection and conservation are expedited. According to the PRS legislative, any case similar to the Bhopal gas tragedy would be tried in the National Green Tribunal, most likely under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. If a company commits an offence, every person directly involved and responsible may be deemed guilty unless they prove ignorance or the exercise of due diligence to prevent the offence.