India and Asbestos: A Dangerous Game with Health

Asbestos was once a popular material in construction across the globe, loved for its heat resistance and strength. However, it’s now known as one of the most dangerous substances that can cause serious diseases, including cancer. In fact, at least 72 countries have banned asbestos due to its health risks. Yet, in a surprising turn, an expert panel set up by India’s environment ministry has proposed that asbestos should continue to be used.

Understanding the Risks of Asbestos

Asbestos is made up of tiny fibrous minerals that can lead to various forms of cancer, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma (a type of lung cancer), and cancers of the ovary and larynx. It also causes asbestosis, a severe lung disease. The concerning thing about asbestos is that even a small amount can be dangerous. If someone breathes in asbestos fibers, it might take years, even decades, for any health issues to surface. Unfortunately, there are no safe levels of exposure, and no known cure for the diseases it causes.

In February 2023, an expert panel that included respected professionals from leading institutions like the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) expressed support for the continued use of asbestos in certain applications, particularly in roofing. This recommendation is in direct contrast to the findings of health experts worldwide, who categorize all forms of asbestos as unsafe.

School Safety Concerns

The National Green Tribunal called for this expert panel to answer a straightforward query: Are asbestos roofs safe for schools? The panel concluded that, if installed correctly and not disturbed, asbestos roofs are safe. This conclusion was met with skepticism as India’s Education Minister Jayant Chaudhary quickly banned the use of asbestos in government-run schools, showing a clear clash between the panel’s findings and health directives aimed at protecting children.

This ongoing dispute highlights a broader issue—how can we trust recommendations made by experts when safety practices are often overlooked in everyday life? In many cases, asbestos roofs, which can be found in poorer neighborhoods, are not installed by experts. Instead, they are often used haphazardly, making it essential to question the safety of such materials in low-income areas.

Conflicting Studies

The expert panel cited a study from Sri Lanka that claimed homes with asbestos roofs showed negligible fiber levels in the air. However, they did not specify which “international standards” they were referring to, nor did they acknowledge that Sri Lanka itself plans to ban asbestos entirely by 2024.

The panel’s reliance on input from the Asbestos Sheet Manufacturers Association raises questions about bias. When asked whether alternatives to asbestos exist, the association, understandably prioritizing its own interests, replied negatively. This leads to a concerning scenario where the recommendations of an expert committee seem to favor industries over health.

Alternative Materials

While the panel mentioned alternatives like galvanized iron and aluminum sheets, they overlooked viable, long-time materials like clay tiles that are both cost-effective and eco-friendly. Clay tiles have been used successfully across India and are well-suited for the hot climate, making them worthy candidates for consideration.

Furthermore, India’s traditional architectural methods emphasize using local materials and sustainable designs, which the panel ignored completely. It’s disappointing that such an important committee did not bring these solutions to the forefront.

Current Usage of Asbestos in India

India is currently the largest importer of asbestos, bringing in nearly 500,000 tonnes as of 2023. It can be found in various places—from homes and vehicles to deep within everyday appliances, raising concerns about the true extent of exposure within the population. The lack of transparency from manufacturers regarding asbestos use in automobiles further complicates the situation.

In contrast, other nations have adopted stringent laws against asbestos, a stark reality that is often dismissed by Indian authorities. Countries around the world, including many in Africa, are making strides to ban the harmful substance, while India seems to be lagging behind.

The Need for Change

Despite the overwhelming evidence against asbestos, including strong recommendations from the World Health Organization, India’s stance remains perplexing. The country’s expert committee insists that the local context makes asbestos use different from that in Western nations. But experts globally assert that all forms of asbestos are hazardous.

As India continues to import asbestos, it appears to be disregarding the severe risks in favor of industrial interests. There’s a saying going around: “My grandfather was full of asbestos. My father full of lead. Me? Full of microplastics.” This should serve as a wake-up call that we cannot allow ourselves to be the “world’s dustbin.”

Conclusion

As Indian citizens, we deserve to live in a country where our health is prioritized over industrial gains. It’s time we push for safer alternatives and stand against substances like asbestos that endanger our lives. The future of our children should not be compromised for short-term benefits.

Hashtags

AsbestosAwareness #HealthFirst #IndiaForSafety #BanAsbestos #SafeSchools #EcoFriendly #SustainableArchitecture #ProtectOurChildren

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