Eye Injuries Spike: The Silent Hazard of Carbide Guns During Diwali

For the first time, AIIMS-Delhi has documented eye injuries from carbide guns during Diwali festivities, prompting experts to call for a ban on these chemical firecrackers.

The Dr Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences at AIIMS witnessed a significant increase in firecracker-related eye injuries this year, receiving 190 cases, of which 18-20 were attributed to carbide guns. Last year, the center recorded 160 cases during Diwali, highlighting a 19% increase, said Dr Radhika Tandon, the chief of RP Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences.

The homemade devices, crafted from PVC pipes and calcium carbide, release acetylene gas and explode, causing shrapnel-like injuries. Experts warn of severe ocular damage with a call for stricter regulations to curb the use of these dangerous devices. The rise in injuries, especially among children, underscores the need for awareness and preventive measures to ensure safer festivities.