Doctors at the prestigious All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi have sounded the alarm after recording a disturbing 19% spike in eye injuries during this year's Diwali celebrations. The renowned Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences witnessed a significant surge in emergency cases, with many victims suffering severe, vision-threatening trauma.
The Carbide Gun Crisis
Medical experts have identified illegal carbide guns as the primary culprit behind the most severe injuries. These dangerous devices, which use calcium carbide and water to create explosive pressure, are causing catastrophic eye damage that often requires immediate surgical intervention.
"The injuries from carbide guns are particularly devastating," explained a senior ophthalmologist from AIIMS. "Unlike traditional fireworks that might cause superficial burns, these guns create high-velocity projectiles that can rupture the eyeball, cause internal bleeding, or even lead to permanent vision loss."
Alarming Statistics Revealed
The data from this festive season presents a worrying trend:
- 19% overall increase in Diwali-related eye injuries compared to previous year
- Significant rise in cases requiring emergency surgery
- Higher proportion of children and young adults among the injured
- Most severe cases linked to illegal firecrackers and carbide devices
Doctor's Urgent Safety Advisory
Medical professionals are urging the public to prioritize safety during celebrations:
- Avoid carbide guns completely - these illegal devices pose extreme danger
- Supervise children closely during firework activities
- Maintain safe distance from all fireworks
- Wear protective eyewear when around firecrackers
- Seek immediate medical attention for any eye injury
"Even a seemingly minor injury can have serious consequences if not treated promptly," warned another AIIMS specialist. "The window for saving vision in trauma cases is often very small."
Long-term Impact and Prevention
Beyond the immediate emergency care, many patients face lengthy recovery periods and multiple surgeries. Some may experience permanent visual impairment that affects their quality of life, education, and employment prospects.
The medical community is calling for stricter enforcement of firecracker regulations and greater public awareness about the very real dangers that accompany the festive celebrations. As one doctor poignantly noted, "No celebration is worth losing your eyesight over."
