What Are Calcium Carbide Guns That Injured Many This Diwali? How Can Their Use Lead to Blindness?
What Are Calcium Carbide Guns That Injured Many This Diwali? How Can Their Use Lead to Blindness?
This festive season has brought more than just lights and celebrations — it has also sparked alarm over a dangerous trend involving “calcium carbide guns.” These crude, homemade devices have caused hundreds of injuries across India, especially among children.
In Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, over 180 people were hospitalized after accidents involving these carbide guns. Many victims were between 8 and 14 years old, several suffering serious eye injuries, including retinal damage that could cause permanent blindness.
A calcium carbide gun, also known as a carbide cannon, is typically made using PVC or metal pipes. When calcium carbide reacts with water inside the pipe, it releases acetylene gas — a highly flammable substance. Once ignited, the gas explodes with a loud bang similar to a firecracker. But unlike fireworks, the blast is uncontrolled and can cause the pipe to burst, sending debris or flames toward the user.
Originally, these devices were used by farmers to scare away animals like boars and deer from their fields, or by city residents to drive away monkeys. They cost around ₹100–₹200 and are seen as a cheaper alternative to electric fences. However, using them for fun during festivals turns them into dangerous explosives.
Ahead of the festive season, the Bhavnagar district administration in Gujarat banned the sale, storage, and use of these PVC carbide guns, warning that the gas can severely irritate the eyes and even cause blindness. The ban will remain in effect until November 5, 2025, and police have already made arrests for illegal possession.
Despite warnings, social media trends encouraged people to use these guns like fireworks, leading to a spike in injuries. Doctors in Bhopal treated 186 people for eye injuries, including 10 who lost their vision permanently and 15 who required surgery.
Experts from the L. V. Prasad Eye Institute in Hyderabad noted that around 15% of all firecracker injuries affect the eyes. The use of calcium carbide guns has made the situation worse, as the reaction produces calcium hydroxide — a highly corrosive compound that can cause severe burns, slow healing, and lasting vision loss.
Health experts and officials are calling for stricter enforcement and public awareness to stop this risky trend. What began as a simple farm tool has now become a dangerous festive fad.
Celebrations should bring joy and light — not injuries and lifelong darkness.
