Despite an ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) Bhopal warning in 2023 about its dangers, the device resurfaced this Diwali as a viral substitute for firecrackers, leading to serious eye injuries among hundreds of people across Madhya Pradesh.
In 2023, ICMR scientists had studied the chemical reaction between calcium carbide and water, which produces acetylene gas (C₂H₂). The research found that this gas not only causes loud explosions but can also permanently damage eyesight.
162 admitted in Bhopal hospitals, 300 affected statewide
So far, 162 people in Bhopal have been hospitalized with severe eye burns and blurred vision after using carbide guns. Many victims reported burning sensations and temporary blindness. Across the state, around 300 people have reported symptoms of eye irritation, including children aged 7 to 14 years in Gwalior, Indore, and Vidisha.
The Health Department has yet to issue official data, and no formal alert has been circulated. When contacted, Bhopal CMHO Dr. Manish Sharma said he was in a video conference and could not comment.
Half of patients can only see a ‘White light ball’
Doctors at Bhopal’s hospitals report that around 50% of patients can now only perceive a warm white glow, suggesting near-total vision loss. Ophthalmologists are treating victims using amniotic membrane implants and tissue grafting to save damaged corneas.
In extreme cases, corneal transplants may be the only long-term solution — though the demand for donor corneas now far exceeds supply.
Chemical reaction causes micro-explosions
ICMR researchers explained that the carbide gun’s explosion occurs when calcium carbide (CaC₂) reacts with water to release acetylene gas. When ignited, this highly flammable gas produces a 'micro-explosion', sending a shockwave of heat and gas directly into the user’s face.During ICMR’s study, six injured patients were examined.
Two had burned eyelids and facial skin, while another had corneal perforation — a tear in the eye’s outer layer. One 9-year-old child’s vision dropped to 6/60, meaning he could only see silhouettes. In almost all cases, corneas turned opaque within 24 hours, resulting in complete or partial blindness.
Falls under ‘Explosive device’ category
The ICMR–NIREH (National Institute for Research in Environmental Health) report has clearly classified the carbide gun as an explosive device.Dr. Aditi Dubey, ophthalmologist at Gandhi Medical College, said:
Every year we see injuries from firecrackers, but this year’s cases are different. These are deep chemical burns. Treating them is extremely challenging and, in some cases, could take a lifetime.
All India Ophthalmological Society issues advisory
Late Thursday evening, the All India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS) issued a national advisory asking ophthalmologists to report all patients injured by carbide guns. According to preliminary reports, Bhopal has recorded the highest number of such cases in India.
Similar incidents have also been reported in Patna, Pune, and Chandigarh, where hospitals have begun receiving patients with eye and facial injuries linked to carbide explosions.
Cheap local gun becomes dangerous trend
Sold for just ₹100–₹200, these homemade guns are made from metal pipes filled with calcium carbide. Dr. S.S. Kubre explained that even a small quantity of carbide produces enough acetylene gas to cause a violent blast:
Within seconds, it can burn the eyes, face, and hands. The danger is that people think it’s just a toy or harmless firecracker substitute.
Ban imposed and arrests made
Following multiple incidents, the sale, purchase, and storage of carbide guns have been banned in Bhopal and Gwalior. Police have made two arrests under explosives and public safety laws.
In Bhopal, Bagsewania police arrested Bhayyu Chauhan, who was selling carbide guns on the roadside. Officers seized 42 guns, 29 lighters, and 1.5 kg of calcium carbide from his possession. A case has been registered against him.
First FIR in Gwalior
In Gwalior, at least 36 cases of eye injuries from carbide guns have been reported. On Thursday evening, after the Collector imposed Section 163, police launched a crackdown on illegal sales. During the drive, Shahid Ali was caught selling carbide guns in Jhadu Wala Mohalla, Inderganj police station area, and was arrested.
Officials have warned that the carbide gun trend, which began as a harmless viral experiment, has now turned into a statewide hazard, causing lasting damage to hundreds of eyes — a tragedy that could have been avoided had early scientific warnings been acted upon.
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