Diwali Havoc in MP: 300 Injured, 30 at Risk of Blindness from Carbide Guns; Bhopal & Gwalior Ban Use

Diwali

celebrations in Madhya Pradesh turned tragic as around 300 people, including children, suffered eye-related injuries ranging from minor to severe after "firing" carbide guns, also known as agri-cannons. Among them, 30 are reported to be in serious condition and at risk of blindness. The carbide gun, which is mainly used by farmers to scare away monkeys and birds, was used during Diwali on Monday and Tuesday, leading to widespread injuries.Madhya Pradesh health officials confirmed that around 300 people in the state reported eye irritation, burns, or loss of vision caused by carbide gun blasts, NDTV reported.

Gwalior and Bhopal ban use of carbide guns

Following the horrific incident, Gwalior and Bhopal have banned the sale, purchase, storage and use of carbide pipe guns. The government order read that any individual found selling or stocking these guns will face an FIR.Moreover, the Sub District Magistrates (SDMs) have been instructed to personally visit retail and wholesale firecracker outlets and inspect for banned items.Doctors have warned that several children may suffer permanent vision loss, while 300 have suffered injuries in their eyes.Across Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, and Vidisha are the worst-hit districts with most victims being children, aged between 7 and 14.Also Read: Children Lose Vision After Diwali Carbide Gun Accident in Madhya Pradesh; How Firecrackers Harm Eyes

What are carbide guns?

Carbide guns are made with a mixture of calcium carbide, matchstick heads, and gunpowder, according to the officials. Adding water to calcium carbide generates acetylene gas; however, ignition creates powerful explosions that result in intense heat, noxious gases, and projectiles.Deputy chief minister Rajendra Shukla ordered district administrations to seize the existing stock and immediately halt the sale and production of calcium carbide guns.As Shukla met with two patients who were undergoing treatment, he promised strict action against the sellers, manufacturers, and users of the calcium carbide guns.