125 Injured in Bhopal Diwali Carbide Gun Explosions
125 Injured in Bhopal Diwali Carbide Gun Explosions when a festive night in Bhopal turned into a nightmare as carbide guns a cheap Diwali toy caused a wave of explosions across the city. At least 125 people suffered burn injuries, and several children tragically lost their eyesight. Officials confirmed that over 150 cases were reported in hospitals, despite earlier warnings about the dangers of these makeshift devices.
Every year, Diwali celebrations in India bring both joy and danger. This year, the danger took a new form. The use of carbide guns, which are often made with calcium carbide and water to create loud bangs, spiraled out of control. These guns, usually sold by roadside vendors for less than ₹50, became lethal weapons when misused in crowded neighborhoods.
Doctors at Hamidia Hospital reported that most victims were under 18. “Many have suffered severe eye injuries and burns on their hands and faces. Some will lose vision permanently,” said an attending ophthalmologist.
Authorities Under Fire for Failing to Enforce Ban
Local authorities had already issued advisories and warnings against the sale and use of carbide guns before Diwali. Yet, enforcement remained weak. Several shopkeepers reportedly continued selling the toys in open markets across the city. The police have now launched an investigation into illegal sales and possible negligence by officials.
Bhopal Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh stated that a special task force will trace the supply chain of these dangerous toys. “Strict action will be taken against those responsible for the sale and distribution of carbide guns,” he said. However, residents argue that these steps are too little, too late.
The incident has sparked outrage among parents and safety advocates. Many are demanding a complete crackdown on the manufacture and sale of such explosives. Social media is flooded with videos of the explosions, with users calling the tragedy a result of “criminal negligence.”
A Pattern of Neglect: Why the Carbide Gun Menace Persists
This is not the first time India has witnessed such tragedies during Diwali. Despite repeated awareness campaigns, hazardous toys and firecrackers continue to circulate. Experts say the problem lies in unregulated manufacturing and weak consumer awareness.
Calcium carbide, used in these toys, reacts violently with water to release acetylene gas — a highly flammable compound. When ignited, it can cause explosions strong enough to blind or burn users instantly. However, due to low prices and easy availability, carbide guns remain popular among children in smaller towns and urban fringes.
Moreover, authorities often struggle to monitor every shop or street vendor selling these illegal products. The gap between regulation and enforcement continues to put thousands of lives at risk every festive season.
The Bhopal Diwali carbide gun explosions highlight a pressing need for stricter laws and public education. Experts urge both the government and parents to take proactive measures — from banning unsafe toys to spreading awareness about their dangers.
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