Diwali Celebrations Caused Multiple Eye Hazards and Fatal Eye Injuries in Kolkata

News Desk, News Nation 360 : The recent Diwali celebrations were wonderful; however, following the holiday, there was an increase in eye dangers and severe eye injuries. According to Dr Soham Basak, Consultant Surgeon at Disha Eye Hospitals, more than 15 surgical cases have been documented, most of which involve teenagers and young people above the age of 21. He further stated that they reported serious problems such as acute uneasiness in both eyes, redness, swelling, and watery eyes, haziness in vision, inflammation, haemorrhage, eyeball rupture, and even entire loss of eyesight. The use of Carbide Guns has been particularly dangerous, resulting in serious eye damage. Dr Basak warns that the next Chhat Puja celebrations may have more serious implications if the practice of using expensive firecrackers continues. They are concerned about the potential long-term implications of their addiction to igniting luxury firecrackers. The hospital recommends individuals take precautions and prioritise eye safety during any festive celebrations, particularly those that feature the widespread use of fancy firecrackers for fun and joy. To avert eye injuries from firecrackers during Diwali, Dr Basak highlighted some critical safety practices—all endorsed by ophthalmologists across the country. Protective eyewear should be worn to protect the eyes from flying objects and sparks, as small objects are enough to lead to corneal burns, retinal injury, or lifelong loss of vision. A distance of three to five feet away from firecrackers is the best bet for minimising the likelihood of eye trauma. On accidental exposure, the eyes must never be rubbed or subjected to home treatment. Rather, adequate washing with clean water is done if a splinter or hot particle gets into the eye, and this is followed by prompt medical examination. Covering up firecrackers with glass containers, tins, or pots for increased sound or sight effect must be absolutely avoided, since the practice results in deadly shrapnel injuries. Experts at facilities like the Shantilal Shanghvi Eye Institute and Ojas Maxivision Eye Hospitals point out that adults need to watch children closely, opt for "green" or low-noise crackers, and not re-light dud firecrackers. They also warn against lighting firecrackers where there is wind or in crowded spaces and suggest abstaining from alcohol use during celebrations. Prompt awareness and simple precautions, as emphasised by Dr Basak, can protect vision and make the festival of lights a time of happiness, unadulterated by avoidable eye injuries.

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