Have you ever wondered what happens to the **gigantic cruise ships** and **megaships** at the end of their service life? Most of these huge vessels end up being dismantled in a few locations, especially in countries in **South Asia**, such as India and Bangladesh where **toxic hazards** are commonplace.
These ship graveyards are at the center of controversies due to their **dangerous working conditions** and significant **environmental impact**.
Alang, India: between efficiency and risk
In India, more than 70% of the globally **scrapped ships** are processed on beaches like **Alang**, located in the state of Gujarat. This place, considered the **world’s largest ship-breaking yard**, has 153 working plots, of which between 131 and 135 are actively operating.
Every year, between 400 and 450 ships are dismantled, generating billions of dollars through the **recycling of materials such as steel, aluminum, and copper**. Since its establishment in the 1980s, Alang has accumulated over $110.6 billion in added value.
The dismantling follows a laborious process: ships are intentionally beached on gently sloping shores to then be cut piece by piece. However, this work entails **enormous risks**.
Since 1984, over 523 deaths among workers have been recorded due to accidents and exposure to **hazardous materials like asbestos and lead**. Pollution is also alarming, with heavy metal levels 20 times higher than the national average.
Although international regulations are being implemented, such as the **Hong Kong Convention for safe ship recycling**, scheduled to enter into force by 2025, the challenges remain serious. In particular, the lack of proper waste management and pollution affect not only the coastal environment but also public health.
Chattogram, Bangladesh: the hidden cost of cheap steel
The port of **Chattogram**, on the outskirts of the city of the same name, is another hub for **ship-breaking in South Asia**. With a coastline of 22 kilometers and 184 shipyards, this place provides half of the **steel used in Bangladesh**.
However, working conditions are even more precarious than in Alang, due to less stringent regulations. Since 1980, more than **1,000 workers have lost their lives** in accidents related to ship-breaking, although the actual figure is suspected to be much higher.
The lack of protective equipment, **constant exposure to toxins**, and the employment of underage workers worsen the situation. These dangerous conditions also have repercussions on the environment.
Recent investigations have found worrying levels of **heavy metals in soils and crops** regarding toxic hazards, as well as the disappearance of 21 local marine species due to pollution and the destruction of mangroves to expand operations.
From toxic hazards towards a more sustainable future
Despite the current terrible conditions, both Alang and Chattogram are working to implement stricter regulations and **safer recycling methods**.
However, the accumulated **negative impact** on the environment and local communities requires urgent attention, as well as greater efforts to ensure the safety and dignity of workers.
Transforming these facilities into **sustainability models** could not only **reduce environmental damage** but also establish a **global standard** for an industry that, although essential, must evolve towards more responsible practices.
Cover photo: markuskorenjak.com
Have you visited our YouTube channel yet? Subscribe now!
