Amritsar, 28 October, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)
The Punjab Ophthalmological Society (POS) — an association of eye specialists — has issued a national alert against the use of carbide and improvised firecrackers, following a disturbing rise in blinding eye injuries across India.
President of the Amritsar Academy of Ophthalmologists, Dr. Shaukeen Singh, along with Secretary Dr. Karamjeet Singh and Treasurer Dr. Raman Mittal, stated that ophthalmologists and hospitals in several states have reported a surge in serious eye injuries caused by so-called “carbide bombs” or “carbide guns.”
These are dangerous explosive devices made from calcium carbide and water, which release highly flammable acetylene gas. The experts clarified that these are chemical explosives, not traditional firecrackers, and can result in:
Blinding chemical and thermal burns
Corneal destruction and irreversible loss of vision
Permanent facial disfigurement and disability
The doctors expressed concern that with Chhath Puja and other upcoming festivals, the continued use of such hazardous devices could trigger another wave of preventable blindness and severe facial injuries.
In view of this alarming situation, ophthalmologists have urged an immediate nationwide ban on the manufacture, sale, transport, and use of carbide-based firecrackers.
Eye specialists have also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and ensure that children and parents refrain from purchasing or using these unsafe carbide-based explosives, which pose a serious threat to vision and life.
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