Over 60 Hospitalized In Bhopal: Majority Are Children Injured By Carbide Guns After Diwali Celebrations

As of now, there is no threat to the lives of those hospitalized. However, some of the injured persons have lost their eyesight, while others suffered from facial burns, an official said.

An official announced on Thursday that over 60 individuals, mostly between the ages of 8 to 14, were hospitalized in Bhopal post Diwali celebrations, due to injuries sustained by using 'dangerous' calcium carbide guns during the festival of lights. As of now, there is no threat to the lives of those hospitalized.

However, some of the injured persons have lost their eyesight, while others suffered from facial burns, the official said.

What Are Carbide Guns?

Manish Sharma, Chief Medical Health Officer (CMHO) Bhopal, told the media, "Carbide pipe guns are very dangerous. The 60 people injured by the use of these guns are still being treated in hospitals in the state capital. All are safe." Giving the details of the hospitals where patients are being treated, he further revealed that five individuals are being monitored at Seva Sadan Hospital, while others are admitted to Hamidia Hospital, JP Hospital, and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

How Is Carbide Guns Dangerous To Health?

According to experts, guns that are made using a gas lighter, calcium carbide and a plastic pipe produce acetylene gas. Therefore, when this substance meets with water, it explodes upon contact with a spark. Interestingly, small plastic fragments are ejected from the pipe, such as shrapnel, that can penetrate the body and damage various parts, particularly the eyes, face and skin.

The official said that more than 150 cases were reported in Bhopal, a day after the Diwali celebrations. However, the majority of them were released after treatment with first aid. He further added that a team of specialised doctors are working together to bring back the eyesight of a 12-year-0ld girl who is admitted to AIIMS.

Is The Government To Blame For Carbide Guns Availability?

Family members of those hospitalised are now blaming the government for making carbide guns available and demanding a ban on them. A father of one patient, while speaking to the media, said, "Strict action should be taken against those who manufacture and sell these guns. Compensation should be provided to cover the children's medical expenses."

To take cognizant of the situation, in a meeting with officials on 18 October, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav directed district magistrates to prevent the sale of carbide pipe guns.

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