What Are Carbide Guns? The Diwali Toy Behind Over 300 Eye Injuries in Madhya Pradesh

A dangerous new Diwali trend in Madhya Pradesh has left more than 300 children injured, with several losing their eyesight, after playing with devices known as “carbide guns.” These makeshift “toys,” resembling harmless firecrackers, are in fact hazardous chemical explosives now banned across the state.

The Rise of a Deadly Diwali Trend

Hospitals across Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, and Vidisha reported a surge in cases of severe eye injuries among children during Diwali celebrations. Investigations revealed that the cause was the use of “carbide guns” — cheap, locally made devices marketed as “desi firecracker guns.” Despite their toy-like appearance, they are capable of producing violent explosions, leading to corneal burns, ruptured pupils, and permanent vision loss. By the time authorities intervened, over 300 injuries had been recorded, with at least 10 children blinded.

How Carbide Guns Work

A carbide gun is typically constructed from a PVC or metal pipe fitted with a small chamber for calcium carbide. When water is added, it reacts to release acetylene gas, which, upon ignition, explodes with significant force. The resulting blast mimics the sound of a firecracker but also propels shrapnel-like fragments of plastic or metal that can cause devastating injuries to nearby users. Despite their crude design, these devices are extremely dangerous due to the uncontrolled chemical reaction they create.

Social Media and the Spread of the ‘Firecracker Gun Challenge’

Authorities have traced the spread of the carbide gun craze to social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube, where short videos promoting the “Firecracker Gun Challenge” encouraged young users to recreate and ignite these devices. The trend’s viral nature contributed to its widespread availability in local markets during Diwali, with units selling for as little as ₹150 to ₹200. In many cases, the users were children aged six to fifteen.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Carbide guns use calcium carbide, which produces acetylene gas when mixed with water.
• Over 300 children were injured across Madhya Pradesh, with at least 10 reported cases of blindness.
• The state government has imposed a complete ban on the sale and storage of carbide guns.
• Social media challenges played a major role in popularising the dangerous device.

Government Action and Medical Warnings

The Madhya Pradesh government has banned the sale, purchase, and possession of carbide guns statewide. Police and district administrations have been directed to seize the devices and take legal action against violators. Doctors have issued urgent appeals to parents, stressing that these devices are not toys but hazardous explosives. Ophthalmologists report treating multiple cases of corneal burns and penetrating eye injuries. Experts have advised against attempting to remove debris manually and urged immediate medical attention to prevent irreversible blindness.