Diwali Disaster: 10 Hospitalized with Severe Firecracker Eye Injuries in Hyderabad
At least 10 people admitted to Hyderabad's Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital with severe firecracker eye injuries, with some facing permanent vision loss.
The festive spirit of Diwali has taken a grim turn for several residents in Hyderabad, as a surge of firecracker eye injuries has left many fighting to save their sight. Government Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital in Mehdipatnam has reported a worrying influx of patients, with at least 10 individuals admitted for urgent care following cracker-related mishaps.
Critical Condition and Surgeries
Hospital Superintendent Dr. P. Modini confirmed that out of the ten admitted patients, eight have already been scheduled for surgery. The situation is critical for at least two of the patients, though a full assessment of their condition will only be possible once the medical team examines them within the operation theatre.
The scale of the crisis is further highlighted by the numbers visiting the outpatient department (OPD). Dr. Supraja revealed that between 50 and 55 people sought treatment for cracker-related injuries on Sunday alone. The prognosis for many is bleak; according to Dr. Supraja, only about 50% of these patients are expected to regain their vision due to extensive damage to the cornea.
"We have 25 beds reserved for Diwali cracker injury cases, and treatment is currently underway," Dr. Supraja stated.
Heartbreaking Accounts of Accidents
The human cost of these accidents is evident in the testimonies of the victims. One patient recounted a terrifying experience that occurred around 7-8 PM on Sunday evening. While lighting a cracker, he was unable to move away in time, leading to a sudden explosion.
The patient described a state of confusion immediately following the blast, noting that both eyes were affected. He revealed that his left eye is completely damaged, while he can only see a small amount through his right eye.
Rising Trends and Warnings
Majid Hussain, the AIMIM Nampally MLA, visited the hospital and noted a disturbing trend, stating that the number of injury cases has increased compared to the previous year. He shared a tragic update from the medical staff, noting that the eyesight of one patient could not be restored.
In response to the crisis, RMO Dr. Mohammad Ibrahim has issued urgent safety guidelines for the public:
- Supervision: Parents must ensure children do not burst crackers without adult oversight.
- Environment: Always use open spaces and keep water nearby for emergencies.
- Immediate Action: In case of an eye injury, wash the eye with clean water immediately.
- Professional Help: Avoid home remedies and rush to the nearest eye hospital.
Injuries Reported Elsewhere
The danger of firecrackers was not limited to Telangana. In Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, the District Hospital reported that 35 to 40 people, including children and the elderly, were treated for burn injuries caused by gunpowder and crackers. Dr. Rajesh Mishra attributed these incidents to a lack of caution by both children and parents during the festivities.