Amidst the happiness of Diwali, a cheap but deadly new ‘toy’ in Bhopal darkened the nights of many families. This time, the calcium carbide gun costing only Rs 150-200 put even the eyesight of children and youth in danger. According to hospital data, till now more than 125 people have fallen prey to this explosive device. Most of the patients in this are children between 8 and 14 years, but adults ranging from 7 years to 35 years have also been affected.
What is this gun and how does it work?
This desi gun is made in a simple way from gas lighter, plastic pipe and easily available calcium carbide. When calcium carbide filled in pipes meets water, acetylene gas is produced. As soon as a small spark is found, a huge explosion occurs and when the pipe breaks, small pieces of plastic, like shrapnel, come out and enter the body, especially the eyes, causing serious injuries. Often children peek out of curiosity and at that very moment an explosion occurs, causing serious damage to the face, eyes and cornea.
Bhopal Reports from patients coming to hospitals in India state that serious damage has been seen in 20–30 percent of the hundreds of cases. Many people required immediate operation and in some cases even cornea transplant. Those who had minor burn injuries have been bandaged and sent home, but for serious cases, preparations for operation and follow-up are now underway.
chemical burn in eyes
Ophthalmologist Dr. Aditi Dubey said, “People ranging from 7 years to 35 years have come to us. This Diwali we saw a special kind of injury caused by carbide bombs. In many cases, chemical burns have occurred in the eyes due to the use of chemicals. 20 to 30 percent people have suffered serious damage, for which operation was done. Those whose burns were minor have been sent home after treatment. In the future, only the results of the operation will determine who will benefit and how much?
This clear statement of the doctor shows that not only the external injury, but also the internal structures of the eye have been affected due to chemical burn, which can lead to permanent loss of eyesight.
Awareness campaign necessary
There is an atmosphere of deep concern in the families. Parents say that cheap prices and easily available materials have given rise to this deadly Jugaad. Experts suggest that control over the availability of calcium carbide and such components in the markets, as well as awareness campaigns among the people, are necessary.
Educating children about the risks in schools and posting warnings on walls in homes would also be helpful. Along with the responsibility of the citizens, the administration also plays a big role such as ban on sales, action against wholesale suppliers and strict inspections are mandatory during festivals.
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