Asbestos Trade in India: A Carcinogenic Legacy and Ongoing Controversy

911 Meso Info

911 Meso Info is a dedicated voice in the fight against mesothelioma, committed to raising awareness, providing reliable information, and empowering individuals affected by this rare disease. With a passion for advocacy, 911 Meso Info delivers insightful resources, up-to-date research, and practical tips to help patients and families navigate their mesothelioma journey. From treatment options and legal guidance to emotional support and prevention strategies, 911 Meso Info is your go-to source for comprehensive mesothelioma knowledge. Connect with us to stay informed and find strength in community. Follow 911 Meso Info for trusted advice and support, and join us in spreading awareness for a brighter tomorrow.

News Summary

The asbestos trade in India raises significant public health concerns as the country remains a major importer despite international bans.

Asbestos Trade in India: A Carcinogenic Legacy and Ongoing Controversy

The use of asbestos remains a contentious issue globally, with a particular emphasis on India’s relationship with this hazardous material. While approximately 70 countries have taken significant steps to ban asbestos, deeming it a “silent killer” due to its carcinogenic properties, India continues to be a major player in the international asbestos market. This paradox raises questions about public health and government accountability in the face of compelling scientific evidence linking various forms of asbestos to serious health risks, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

The Asbestos Supply Chain

Although India banned the mining of asbestos in 2011, the country has not halted the import of raw asbestos and products made from it. Reports indicate that between 2019 and 2020, India imported an astonishing 361,164 tonnes of asbestos, with around 85% of this material sourced from Russia, the world’s leading supplier of this contentious substance. The importation of chrysotile (or white asbestos), which has been deemed less harmful by some industry advocates, paints a picture of complacency regarding the ongoing health risks associated with asbestos exposure.

Contradictory Research and Government Stance

One of the most alarming aspects of the ongoing asbestos trade in India is the existence of studies that downplay its dangers. A 2012 study from the National Institute of Occupational Health, ironically sponsored by the asbestos industry, suggested that asbestos was not harmful. This raises red flags about the integrity of research in the face of overwhelming evidence indicating the opposite. The UN Rotterdam Convention has already classified chrysotile asbestos as a dangerous substance with significant health and environmental implications, yet India appears resistant to adopting the same stance.

The Impact of Commercial Interests

Critics, including environmental lawyers, argue that the Indian government is heavily influenced by commercial interests, as evidenced by the oversight of health officials who also promote asbestos. This perception of prioritizing profit over public health has led to calls for better education and awareness regarding the hazards of asbestos. Without such initiatives, the potential for ongoing health crises linked to asbestos exposure in workplaces and communities remains alarmingly high.

As India’s Asbestos Odyssey Continues

The history of asbestos in India dates back to the era of British colonial rule, and with it comes a legacy that is not easily shaken off. The UK fully banned asbestos in 1999, yet India remains mired in a complex relationship with its continued usage. While there have been measures put in place to phase out asbestos in certain sectors, such as the railway, the overall trade persists unabated. The Indian government has even created codes of working conditions for handling this hazardous material, which seems less like a deterrent and more like a way to placate growing concerns.

Fluctuating Exports and Business Arguments

Interestingly, India is not just a consumer but a modest exporter of asbestos products as well. Recent figures show a drop in exports from 1,112 tonnes to 1,001 tonnes. Proponents of the industry maintain that concerns surrounding chrysotile asbestos are exaggerated and claim that it can be used safely under controlled conditions. The International Chrysotile Association and other business interests vigorously defend this position, suggesting that the benefits of asbestos outweigh its risks when managed appropriately.

As the asbestos debate rages on, advocates emphasize the need for comprehensive educational campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers posed by this material. Only then can more informed choices be made about its use in India, potentially steering the country away from what could become a profound public health crisis in the future.