According to Mr. Manglani, the industry is suffering from a recession. He said: "People are going in for alternative materials, like iron for pipes and wood for roofs, which is more expensive than asbestos. Asbestos is unfortunately a victim of negative publicity." He pointed out that the asbestos mixed with cement reduces the health hazard to a large extent.

The release of asbestos from the asbestos-cement pipes is a health hazard. However a World Health Organisation Task Group on asbestos and other natural mineral fibres concluded that the studies conducted to date provide little convincing evidence of an association between asbestos in public water supplies and cancer induction. According to Mr. Rakesh Kumar, head of the Mumbai office of National Environmental Engineering and Research Institute, "Asbestos does not cause any harm in terms of its use, but causes harm to those who are involved in its manufacturing or processing."

He said: "Inhaling the fibres of asbestos cause asbesteosis, which affects the lungs. The symptoms are breathing problem, severe bronchitis, and even asthma." However, Mr. Kumar pointed out that there are chances of getting affected even when asbestos material is broken and thrown into garbage near residential areas.

The risk of inhaling the fibres exists when the fibres escape into he atmosphere. But this can be prevented by wearing masks and also by wetting the fibres before use in order to trap them. Mr. Manglani added, "Mixing asbestos with cement also traps the fibre."

The advantages of asbestos over other materials is that it is cost efficient, durable and energy efficient. Regarding the anti-asbestos lobby Mr. Manglani said: "Initially it was a highly profit-making industry. But the industry leaders propagated the view that it is not safe in order to protect their monopoly. We want to change this and want the industry to open up to competition."