Doctors call for safe festival of lights

BHUBANESWAR: Doctors have advised people to be careful while bursting crackers and lighting diyas and candles during Diwali as many children and even elderly people suffer burn injuries.
Covid-19 and increasing pollution levels had led to a ban on the sale of fireworks for the last few years. But since all the restrictions have been lifted this year, the sale of crackers has seen an increase across the city.
Sources said a new type of device called carbide gun, which is made of PVC pipes and usually used by farmers to scare away grazing and wild animals, are being sold for Diwali. There are many DIY (do-it-yourself) videos on making these carbide guns on social medial platforms. “Carbide guns though cheap, can cause serious injuries to the eyes. We urge all to be aware of the dangers in using carbide gun,” said Dr Srikant Kumar Sahu of LV Prasad Eye Hospital.
Doctors said a majority of the injuries are caused due to negligence by children and youngsters. “Injuries sometimes can be fatal and not only lead to physical disability and deformities but also psychological trauma and depression,” said Dr Jayant Das, plastic surgeon and burns specialist at SUM Hospital.
Meanwhile, commissionerate police have asked people to buy green crackers from authorized dealers only.