Pune boy loses 70 percent of his eyesight due to laser lights used during Ganesh festival

By: Pune Pulse

October 4, 2023

Pune: A significant number of devotees of Lord Ganesh, particularly the youth, become engrossed in dancing and celebrating to loud music played by DJs accompanied by flashing laser lights during the immersion processions. Unfortunately, they remain unaware of the detrimental effects that these activities can have on their health.

As per the information received, two young individuals from Dattawadi, Pune, have suffered retinal injuries caused by laser beams during the recent Visarjan festival. One of them identified as Aniket, a resident of Sinhagad Road, has experienced a loss of 70 percent of their vision. It is a cause for concern that numerous others may have also encountered eye problems due to the harmful impact of laser lights. During the Ganesh Visarjan procession, DJs and laser lights were extensively used.

This information was revealed by Dr. Anil Dudhbhate, a renowned ophthalmologist at Dudhbhate Eye Hospital on Sinhagad Road, during a press conference held on Tuesday. 

As per information, Aniket had taken part in the Ganesh Visarjan procession at Parvati Paitha on the day of the event. While dancing, a laser light from the DJ apparatus fell on one of his eyes. Although he did not experience any pain or burning sensations in his eyes at the time, his vision was impaired. Aniket stated that his vision in one eye has diminished by approximately 70 percent.

According to the provided information, Aniket received treatment from ophthalmologist Dr. Anil Dudhbhate. He further explained that our facility is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for all types of eye treatments. Aniket’s retina was damaged due to the laser light exposure and is currently undergoing treatment.

What is a laser burn?

If the power of the laser light exceeds five milliwatts, even a 10-second exposure can cause significant damage to the retina. Young individuals who come into close proximity to this laser frequency or have a vulnerable eye structure are susceptible to encountering this problem.

Dr. Anil Dudhbhate, Dudhbhate Netralaya and Retina Centre, Sinhagad Road, added, ”If there are many patients like Aniket, they should immediately consult an ophthalmologist. Avoid laser lights. There is a need to impose rules and restrictions on the use of these lasers. Otherwise, its terrible effects will be seen in the upcoming Navratri and Diwali festivals, and many innocent people will face the brunt of them.”