The Madhya Pradesh High Court has sought responses from the Centre, the state government and other respondents over suspected asbestos contamination in Kymore town of Katni district, where nearly 10 lakh tonnes of potentially contaminated soil may pose a long-term health risk to around 28,000 residents.
The Jabalpur bench issued notices on November 5 while hearing a public interest litigation alleging that hazardous waste from a British-era asbestos factory was not scientifically identified, contained or safely disposed of. The factory was established by Turner & Newall PLC in Kymore in 1933-34.
The petition refers to a 2016 assessment by Canadian consultancy ECOH, titled Asbestos Investigation and Remedial Options Analysis: Kymore and Kalhara Villages. The assessment estimated 5,66,405 cubic metres of potentially contaminated soil, equivalent to approximately 10.19 lakh tonnes, across Kymore and the Kalhara landfill.
According to the assessment cited in the petition, the investigation covered 5,62,500 square metres in Kymore and 3,905 square metres at Kalhara. It estimated the cost of excavation and off-site disposal at $88 million, while capping the contaminated areas was estimated at $52 million.
The PIL alleges that asbestos waste generated over several decades was dumped or used in residential areas, agricultural land and public spaces. Asbestos fibres can cause diseases including asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma, although the extent of contamination and its health impact in Kymore remain matters before the court.
The petitioners have sought an independent environmental assessment, comprehensive health screening and treatment for residents and former employees, compensation, and a time-bound plan for the safe removal and disposal of the waste. Social activist Ashutosh Dixit Manu and Kymore resident Ganesh Rao filed the petition, while advocate Aryan Urmaliya appeared for them.
Health concerns extend beyond former factory workers. A school established within the factory premises in 1940 has figured in earlier investigations. Its former headmistress, Nirmala Gurung, was diagnosed with parenchymal asbestosis in 2016. She raised the issue at a United Nations forum in Geneva in 2017 and died in September 2020. Medical camps have been held in Kymore since 2013, and the petition cites records of hundreds of people allegedly affected by asbestos-related diseases.
The case also raises questions about responsibility across successive ownership structures. The factory passed through the Eternit group before becoming part of Everest Industries Ltd. The UK-based T&N Asbestos Trust has settled 3,849 claims from Indian citizens worth £11.05 million, although those settlements are not exclusively related to Kymore.
The notices issued by the Jabalpur bench require the Centre, the Madhya Pradesh government and the other respondents to explain their positions. The court proceedings will determine the next steps on environmental assessment, public health screening, compensation and the management of the allegedly contaminated sites.
