Over 300 Eye Injuries Reported in Madhya Pradesh Due to Carbide Guns

• Incident: More than 300 children injured during Diwali celebrations in Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, and Vidisha; at least 10 cases of permanent blindness reported.

• Cause: Use of carbide guns , locally made explosive devices resembling firecrackers.

​​​​​​​ How Carbide Guns Work:

• Constructed from PVC or metal pipes with a chamber for calcium carbide .

• Water added to the chamber produces acetylene gas , which ignites and causes a violent explosion.

• Explosions propel shrapnel-like fragments, causing severe eye injuries.

Social Media Influence:

• Viral “ Firecracker Gun Challenge ” videos on Instagram and YouTube encouraged children to use these devices.

• Carbide guns were sold in local markets for ₹150–₹200 , mostly used by children aged 6–15.

Government and Medical Response:

• Complete ban on the sale, purchase, and possession of carbide guns in Madhya Pradesh.

• Authorities instructed to seize devices and take legal action.

• Doctors warn these are hazardous explosives , not toys; urgent medical attention is advised for injuries.

Exam-Oriented Facts:

• Carbide guns rely on calcium carbide reacting with water to release acetylene gas.

• Over 300 injuries, including permanent eye damage , recorded during Diwali 2025.

• Statewide ban implemented; social media contributed to the device’s popularity.