Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav directed all Collectors and Superintendents of Police (SPs) to exercise special vigilance during upcoming festivals and social and religious fairs. He instructed them to strictly prevent the use of carbide guns and carbide lamps, warning that locally manufactured versions of these devices pose serious risks to human safety.
The Chief Minister also directed officials to curb the illegal sale of firecrackers during Diwali and ensure that no untoward incidents occur. Collectors and SPs will be held responsible for any adverse ‘Law and Order’ situation in their respective districts. He asked them to complete preparations in advance to maintain law and order during festivals and ensure coordination on security and emergency management.
Dr. Yadav addressed a virtual review meeting with Collectors, Commissioners, SPs and Inspectors General of Police (IGs) across the state from the Mantralaya on Wednesday. He reviewed the field-level implementation of the state government’s flagship schemes and development programmes and directed officials to ensure comprehensive ‘Law and Order’ arrangements for festivals over the coming months.
About Carbide Guns: Calcium carbide releases highly flammable acetylene gas when it comes into contact with water. The gas can explode even with a small spark. Such explosions can propel small plastic and metal fragments, causing serious injuries to the eyes, face and skin. Burning acetylene gas also poses a risk of burns and fire, while exposure can be harmful to the eyes and skin. The Public Health and Medical Education Department issued an advisory on the risks associated with carbide guns in 2025.
Strengthen Security in Sensitive Areas: CM Mohan Yadav directed Collectors and SPs to step up surveillance in sensitive areas of their districts during festivals and social fairs. All necessary preventive and security measures must be taken to prevent social or communal tensions.
Enforce Firecracker Licensing and Safety Norms: CM Mohan Yadav directed officials to strictly enforce all prescribed conditions while issuing licences for firecracker shops.
Ensure Fire and Medical Emergency Preparedness: In view of the risk of accidents and potential loss of life from carbide guns and lamps, CM directed officials to strictly prohibit their use. He instructed authorities to ensure the availability of fire engines, firefighting equipment and trained personnel at sensitive locations during Diwali. Ambulances must be stationed at key locations, nearby hospitals and health centres kept on alert, and medical staff assigned duties in advance. Ensure adequate lighting on major roads and in sensitive areas across cities and towns.
