February 14

The 1989 settlement saw Union Carbide pay $470 million to the Indian government to compensate victims of the 1984 Bhopal gas leak, which exposed over half a million people to lethal toxins. The catastrophic accident at the pesticide plant in Bhopal, India, claimed thousands of lives instantly and left survivors with long-term health issues. Union Carbide faced global outrage and protracted legal battles over its responsibility and the adequacy of its response. Critics argued that the settlement amount was insufficient to cover medical costs and economic losses. The agreement brought some financial relief to victims but sparked ongoing debates over corporate accountability and environmental justice. The Bhopal legacy continues to influence industrial safety regulations worldwide.

On February 14, 1990, Indian Airlines Flight 605, an Airbus A320, encountered problems during its final approach to Bangalore Airport. The aircraft descended below the glide path in poor visibility, struck the runway and a perimeter fence, and broke apart on impact. The crash resulted in the deaths of 92 passengers and crew. Investigators cited pilot error and inadequate response to cockpit warnings as key factors. The disaster prompted Indian aviation authorities to review safety procedures and enhance pilot training. It remains one of the deadliest air accidents in India and led to improvements in instrument landing systems and approach protocols.

On February 14, 1998, an oil tanker train carrying fuel derailed and collided with a stationary freight train near a rail yard in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The impact ruptured tank cars, spilling thousands of liters of fuel onto the tracks and surrounding ground. Locals, many of whom were illegally collecting the valuable fuel, were caught in a sudden, massive explosion that engulfed the scene. The blast killed approximately 120 people and injured over 200, making it one of Cameroon's worst peacetime disasters. Emergency services struggled to reach the remote site, and survivors faced severe burns and trauma. The tragedy highlighted the dangers of informal fuel scavenging and prompted calls for improved rail safety and community awareness. Investigations led to stricter regulations on hazardous cargo transport and better emergency response planning.

On February 14, 2004, the roof of the Transvaal water park in Khimki, just outside Moscow, gave way under heavy snow load and structural weaknesses. The collapse occurred during a busy holiday period, catching hundreds of visitors in the indoor pools and slides. Over 28 people lost their lives in the sudden disaster, and 193 others sustained injuries ranging from minor to critical. Rescue workers faced challenges navigating the debris and water-filled halls to reach survivors. Investigations pointed to design flaws, inadequate maintenance, and failure to clear snow from the roof as contributing factors. The tragedy prompted a nationwide review of public building safety standards and emergency preparedness. It remains one of Russia's deadliest structural failures and led to tighter regulations for recreational facilities.