The festival of lights took a dangerous turn in Bhopal as Diwali celebrations were marred by serious accidents involving banned carbide guns. More than sixty people found themselves in hospital beds instead of celebrating with their families.
Hospitals Overwhelmed with Burn Victims
Medical facilities across Bhopal reported being swamped with patients suffering from severe burns and hand injuries. The Government Medical College in Bhopal alone treated numerous cases, with doctors working overtime to handle the emergency situation.
Children Among the Injured
Disturbingly, a significant number of the victims were children and teenagers who had been using these dangerous explosive devices. Many suffered serious hand injuries that required immediate surgical intervention and may have long-term consequences.
The Dangerous Weapon: Carbide Guns
These illegal firearms, known locally as 'carbide guns' or 'desi katta,' use calcium carbide and water to create acetylene gas explosions. The devices are notoriously unstable and can cause devastating injuries when they misfire or explode in users' hands.
Authorities Issue Stern Warning
Local authorities have reiterated that these weapons are completely banned and pose extreme danger to users and bystanders alike. Police have been instructed to crack down on the manufacturing and sale of these hazardous devices.
A Pattern of Preventable Tragedy
This isn't the first time carbide guns have caused mass casualties during festive seasons. Similar incidents have been reported in previous years, highlighting the persistent danger these illegal weapons pose to public safety.
As the community recovers from this traumatic Diwali, questions are being raised about enforcement of existing bans and public awareness regarding the dangers of these makeshift explosive devices.
