Dangerous “Carbide Guns” Lead to Statewide Ban in Madhya Pradesh Following Diwali Injuries
A statewide ban on the sale and use of “carbide guns” has been swiftly implemented in Madhya Pradesh, India, following a surge in severe injuries reported during this year’s Diwali celebrations. Thes homemade devices, deceptively marketed as toys, caused important harm - particularly to children – prompting immediate action from state authorities.
A Wave of Injuries Overwhelms Hospitals
Reports indicate over 125 individuals, including a considerable number of children and elderly citizens, sustained injuries from the explosive devices. Doctors believe the actual number could be closer to 200.
The injuries were widespread, with a concentration in major cities:
* Bhopal reported 36 cases.
* Gwalior saw nearly 20 injuries.
* Indore recorded four cases.
* Sagar and other districts reported three or more cases each.
Hospitals across the state experienced a dramatic increase in patients presenting with eye and facial trauma. Many cases were treated at private clinics, making a precise count challenging.
The Devastating Impact of Carbide Guns
These “desi firecracker guns,” constructed from readily available materials like tin pipes, gas lighters, and calcium carbide, pose a serious threat. When ignited, they create a violent explosion, launching plastic shards at high velocity.
These fragments cause:
* Deep corneal ulcers.
* Severe burns to the face and eyes.
* Potential for permanent vision loss.
Over 70% of patients treated suffered corneal damage, with many facing long-term visual impairment.
Authorities Respond with Prohibitory Orders
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, state officials have issued a strict prohibitory order. District administrative officials and police forces are actively enforcing the ban to ensure public safety and maintain law and order.
You should be aware that failing to comply with this directive will result in legal repercussions. This measure is a direct response to the preventable injuries caused by these dangerous devices.
Understanding the Danger: How Carbide Guns Work
according to medical experts, these devices are far from harmless toys. They generate acetylene gas, which ignites upon contact with a spark. Kavita Kumar, Head of the Ophthalmology Department at Hamidia Hospital, emphasized the explosive nature of the device, stating it’s a “deadly explosive” rather than a plaything.
the resulting blast scatters plastic pieces like pellets, inflicting deep and damaging wounds. Hamidia Hospital alone treated approximately 40 patients on Diwali night.
A Public Health Crisis
Manish Sharma, Bhopal’s Chief Medical and Health Officer, confirmed that over 60 people, primarily children between 8 and 14 years old, were hospitalized in Bhopal. While many received first aid and were discharged, the sheer volume of cases overwhelmed local healthcare facilities.
Patients were admitted from surrounding areas, including Seoni Malwa, Hoshangabad, Sehore, and Narsinghpur, further straining resources. This situation underscores the urgent need for public awareness and strict enforcement of the ban.
You can definitely help protect yourself and your loved ones by reporting any sale or use of these dangerous devices to local authorities.Remember, prioritizing safety is crucial, especially during festive seasons.
