In November,  Andy and I are going on a cycle challenge in India of 420k (260 miles)  to raise money for the Bhopal Medical Appeal.  The ride goes from the Kolvi caves (near Bundi) to Bhopal in Madyha Pradesh.

Some of  you will remember the appalling accident in December 1984 when the Union Carbide factory in Bhopal poured a huge cloud of poison over the sleeping city, killing thousands in the most hideous and disgusting ways.  Many more thousands continue to be affected by chronic health problems and contaminated water supplies. 

Union Carbide left the city without bothering to clean its factory.  Twenty-four years after the gas disaster chemicals spill from rotting sacks and drums.  Each monsoon washes them deeper into the sub-soil.  People still have to drink the poisoned water.  Damaged children are still being born.  In  1999 Greenpeace tested soil and water in 14 neighbourhoods near the factory.  In places they found mercury levels 6,000,000 times higher than normal and more than 30 chemicals in the water, many known to cause birth defects and cancer.  A 2001 study found lead, mercury and the factory's poisonous signature in the breast milk of new mothers. 

Both Union Carbide and its legal owner Dow Chemical claim it is not their responsibility.  The Indian Government has also done little to help clean the factory or to provide clean water.

14 years ago the Bhopal Medical Appeal raised money to open the Sambhavana Clinic to help those affected.  The clinic is funded solely by individuals and has now given free care to more than 30,000 people.  Money continues to be raised to pay the clinic's staff and buy medical supplies. 

 Please dig deep and sponsor us online.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor us: The Bhopal Medical Appeal will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

So please sponsor us now!

Many thanks for your support.