Calcium Carbide Guns: Harmful Effects and Solutions

Why in News ?

More than 100 people, mostly children, were injured during Diwali in Bhopal and Vidisha districts of Madhya Pradesh due to the use of calcium carbide guns.

What is a carbide gun ?

• A calcium carbide gun is a homemade makeshift toy gun, costing approximately ₹150 in the market.
• This gun is made from a mixture of a plastic pipe, a gas lighter, and calcium carbide.
• When water is added to the carbide, it produces acetylene gas.
• Upon contact with a spark from the lighter, this gas explodes with a loud sound, which has become its "fad."
• However, in this explosion, plastic fragments are ejected like shrapnel, penetrating the body and causing serious injuries.

Major Hazards

• Chemical Reaction Hazard: Acetylene gas released from calcium carbide when in contact with water is highly flammable and can explode with even a small spark.
• Explosive Injuries: In this explosion, tiny plastic and metal particles are ejected, causing serious injuries to the eyes, face, and skin.
• Fire and Burns: Burning acetylene gas poses a risk of burns or fires.
• Danger of Attraction to Children: These guns are seen as toys, which can lead to children using them unknowingly and causing serious accidents.

Harmful Effects

• Health Effects:
  • Cases of loss of eyesight have been reported.
  • Many children have suffered permanent scarring or burns on their face and skin.
  • Explosions can cause ear damage, headaches, and mental trauma.
• Environmental Impact:
  • Gases released from calcium carbide contribute to air pollution.
  • Plastic pipes and other waste materials are released as waste, releasing toxic substances into the environment.
  • This process also increases noise pollution, which adversely affects animals and birds.

Way Forward

• Strict Ban: The sale, manufacture, and distribution of such hazardous products should be immediately banned.
• Awareness Campaign: Children and parents should be informed about the dangers in schools and communities.
• Legal Action: Criminal cases should be filed against those selling such products and they should be severely punished.
• Promotion of Safe Alternatives: Safe, environmentally friendly, and traditional entertainment options should be promoted during festivals like Diwali.
• Medical Assistance: Specialized eye and skin treatment centers should be established for injured children, and government compensation should be provided.