On Diwali, more than 60 people, most of them children aged between 8 and 14, were hospitalised in Bhopal due to injuries sustained after using calcium carbide guns, an official said on Thursday. Around 14 children reportedly lost their eyesight, while a few have suffered facial burns. The carbide guns were in trend this Diwali.

What are calcium carbide guns?

The 'dangerous' guns are made using a gas lighter, a plastic pipe, and calcium carbide. The carbide in the gun produces acetylene gas when it meets water and explodes upon contact with a spark, an official said. These guns are priced between Rs 150 to Rs 200 and are sold in shops as toys.

Experts said small plastic fragments ejected from the pipe, like shrapnel, penetrate the body, causing serious injuries and damage to various part

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