AIIMS Flags Rise in Diwali Eye Injuries, Warns Against Carbide Guns
AIIMS reported a 19% increase in firecracker-related eye injuries during Diwali, with 18-20 cases linked to carbide guns. These homemade explosives cause severe ocular burns and irreversible vision loss. Despite court restrictions, weak enforcement and cross-border availability of banned crackers continue to pose risks.
Doctors at AIIMS in Delhi have highlighted a concerning rise in firecracker-related eye injuries during Diwali, with a 19% increase from the previous year. The hospital treated 190 cases, of which 18-20 were linked to carbide guns—home-assembled explosives that cause chemical and thermal burns leading to irreversible vision loss. Despite the Supreme Court allowing only certified 'green' crackers for limited use, weak enforcement and cross-border availability of banned crackers remain significant issues. The majority of the injured were young males with a mean age of 20 years. Nearly 44% of the cases required immediate surgical intervention, and many suffered severe visual impairment. Experts urge a ban on carbide-based crackers and improved public education on ocular trauma risks.
