The festive spirit of Deepavali turned somber in Bengaluru as at least nine people suffered serious eye injuries from firecracker mishaps on the first day of celebrations. The incidents have prompted urgent safety warnings from medical professionals across the city.
Multiple Hospitals Report Emergency Cases
Medical facilities across Bengaluru witnessed a stream of emergency cases throughout the festive evening. Victims ranged from young children to adults, all presenting with varying degrees of eye trauma caused by improper handling of fireworks or malfunctioning firecrackers.
Dr. Sujatha Rathod, a senior ophthalmologist, expressed concern: "We've seen multiple cases of corneal abrasions, chemical burns from sparklers, and even one case where a rocket hit someone directly in the eye. The injuries could have lifelong consequences for some patients."
Common Causes of Diwali Injuries
- Bursting firecrackers too close to the body
- Malfunctioning or poor-quality fireworks
- Children handling crackers without supervision
- Not maintaining safe distance while watching displays
- Igniting multiple crackers simultaneously
Medical Experts Issue Safety Guidelines
Doctors emphasize that immediate first aid can significantly impact recovery outcomes. "If any foreign particle enters the eye, don't rub it," advises Dr. Rajesh Kumar from Victoria Hospital. "Gently wash with clean water and seek immediate medical attention rather than trying home remedies."
Hospitals across the city have put their ophthalmology departments on high alert, expecting more cases as Deepavali celebrations continue. The medical community urges revelers to prioritize safety over spectacle during the remaining festive days.
