Abstract: The textile industry in Bhopal, like many other parts of India, relies heavily on synthetic dyes, including azo, reactive, anthraquinone, and disperse dyes. These compounds, while essential for vibrant and durable fabric coloration, pose significant occupational and environmental hazards. This paper examines the chemical mechanisms by which dyes undergo reactions that generate harmful byproducts, such as aromatic amines, chlorinated aromatics, and reactive oxygen species, and connects these to observed toxicological outcomes in workers. Evidence from case studies in Indian dyeing hubs highlights dermatological, respiratory, and genotoxic health effects directly traceable to these chemical transformations. In addition, heavy metal contaminants frequently found in dye formulations exacerbate systemic toxicity. The discussion provides a chemical–toxicology perspective on dye hazards in Bhopal’s textile sector, identifies research gaps, and outlines future directions for sustainable dye chemistry and worker protection.

Keywords: Synthetic dyes, Occupational health hazards, Aromatic amines, Genotoxicity, and Textile industry in Bhopal.