Calcium Carbide Guns Cause Severe Eye Injuries in MP's Khargone
A recent study has highlighted the severe ocular injuries caused by calcium carbide guns in Madhya Pradesh's Khargone district. The study recommends increased public awareness and restrictions on the unlicensed sale of these guns and raw materials.
In 2023, a research study found that five young males suffered severe eye injuries due to calcium carbide guns malfunctioning. The guns, used for lighting in industries and agriculture, exploded when users peered inside, causing an acetylene gas explosion and calcium hydroxide spray into their eyes. This incident, along with 300 others, mostly involving children and teenagers, led Madhya Pradesh authorities to crack down on these guns. Despite being used by farmers and firecracker professionals for years, the risk posed by calcium carbide guns was not anticipated. The low cost, easy availability, and lack of awareness about their risks contributed to the incident. All five patients suffered injuries including eyelid edema, conjunctival congestion, corneal opacification, and limbal ischemia, resulting in vision loss ranging from 6/36 to no light perception.
The study underscores the urgent need for public awareness campaigns and regulatory measures to control the unlicensed sale of calcium carbide guns and raw materials. The severe injuries and vision loss suffered by the victims highlight the importance of these interventions.
