Tragic incidents during Diwali celebrations in Madhya Pradesh have highlighted the extreme dangers of homemade PVC pipe guns. At least 300 individuals suffered eye injuries, with ten losing their sight permanently, following the use of these makeshift devices. The Madhya Pradesh government has now banned the sale, purchase, and storage of these ‘carbide’ pipe guns.
These devices, commonly marketed as toys for children, are constructed from simple PVC pipes. A mixture of potash or calcium carbide is placed inside, with a few drops of water added to initiate a volatile reaction. Ignition, often with a lighter, results in a deafening explosion and a burst of sparks that can cause severe eye damage. Reports indicate these pipe guns were readily available for Rs 150 to Rs 200 in various cities across Madhya Pradesh, including Bhopal, Indore, and Gwalior.
Originally intended for farmers to deter stray animals, the popularity of these pipe guns surged due to viral videos on social media platforms. Countless individuals, influenced by online tutorials, attempted to replicate these dangerous devices, leading to the widespread injuries. The reliance on unverified information from social media has proven devastating, as evidenced by the numerous victims in Madhya Pradesh.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution and critically evaluate content shared online. Blindly trusting social media trends can have severe consequences. It is crucial for individuals to use their judgment to discern between safe and unsafe practices. The ban on these dangerous pipe guns aims to prevent further tragedies during festive periods.