Bhopal: Dangerous ‘Carbide Guns’ Leave Over 125 People Injured During Diwali

Diwali celebrations in Bhopal and nearby districts turned tragic this year as many people, including young children and elderly citizens, were seriously injured by makeshift “carbide guns” — explosive devices sold as cheap festive toys. Doctors say more than 125 cases were officially recorded, but the real number could be closer to 200.

These incidents were not limited to Bhopal alone. Nearly 20 cases were reported from Gwalior, four from Indore, three from Sagar, and 36 from Bhopal. Victims also came from areas like Seoni Malwa, Hoshangabad, Sehore, and Narsinghpur, putting a huge burden on eye hospitals and emergency departments.

Doctors reveal that over 70% of injuries involve severe damage to the eyes. Many patients suffered corneal tears, burns, and foreign bodies lodged deep inside the eye. Sadly, several children have permanently lost their eyesight.

Carbide guns, sold for around ₹200, are made using plastic pipes, gas lighters, and calcium carbide. When ignited, they produce acetylene gas, which explodes with great force, sending sharp plastic fragments flying like pellets.

Hamidia Hospital, one of the largest medical centres in Bhopal, treated nearly 40 patients on Diwali night alone. Dr Kavita Kumar, Head of Ophthalmology at the hospital, warned that these devices are “deadly explosives disguised as toys.” She explained that the blast causes deep corneal ulcers and burns, sometimes requiring emergency corneal transplants — a costly procedure with long recovery periods.

Across Madhya Pradesh, more than 125 children have been hospitalised due to similar injuries. Reports indicate that at least 14 children have permanently lost their vision.

Bhopal CMHO, Dr Manish Sharma, confirmed more than 60 hospitalisations in the city, mostly children aged 8 to 14. Over 150 minor injury cases were reported a day after Diwali, with many treated and discharged after first aid.

This surge in injuries comes despite an official ban. On October 18, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav ordered district authorities to restrict the sale of carbide guns. However, they remained widely available in markets and were heavily promoted on social media as a fun Diwali stunt.

The growing number of vision-related injuries has raised serious concerns among doctors and parents. Experts say stronger enforcement, awareness, and parental supervision are necessary to prevent such tragedies in the future.