Carbide Guns Cause Eye Injuries During Diwali
Carbide guns, popularized through social media, have caused severe eye injuries during Diwali. In Delhi, AIIMS reported 20 such cases, while Madhya Pradesh banned these devices after nearly 300 vision-threatening injuries. The homemade explosives can lead to permanent blindness due to chemical reactions and blasts.
The use of carbide guns during Diwali celebrations has led to a significant number of severe eye injuries across India. These homemade devices, often made from PVC pipes and calcium carbide, produce acetylene gas that can ignite and cause violent blasts. In Delhi, AIIMS recorded 20 cases of carbide gun-related eye injuries, with most victims being children. The Madhya Pradesh government has banned the manufacture, sale, and use of these devices following nearly 300 vision-threatening injuries in cities like Bhopal and Indore. Despite the ban in Madhya Pradesh, Delhi-NCR has not yet implemented similar restrictions. Doctors at AIIMS have emphasized the need for stricter enforcement and awareness to prevent such injuries, as the explosions can cause permanent blindness due to chemical damage and harmful gases entering the eyes.