The festive spirit of Diwali has been marred by a severe outbreak of eye injuries in Madhya Pradesh, with at least 300 people affected and ten losing their eyesight due to unregulated PVC pipe guns. Authorities have responded with a swift ban on these hazardous items.
These ‘carbide guns’ are constructed using basic PVC pipes filled with a mixture of calcium carbide or potash. Adding a few drops of water triggers a chemical reaction, resulting in a loud bang and a discharge of sparks capable of causing blindness. These devices, often marketed as toys, were found to be widely available for purchase during the Diwali rush in several Madhya Pradesh cities.
Their increased prevalence is linked to social media trends, where instructional videos demonstrating how to make and use these pipe guns have gone viral. This has led many to believe they are harmless novelties, disregarding the inherent dangers. The reliance on social media for such information has tragically proven detrimental.
The prohibitory order, enforced by local officials, covers all pipe guns regardless of material. This crisis highlights a broader issue of online misinformation leading to real-world harm. The public is implored to exercise caution and refrain from engaging with or replicating dangerous activities seen on social media, prioritizing personal safety above all else.