Mysuru, Oct. 23 (RK&BCT)- This year’s careless bursting of Deepavali firecrackers left 11 people with eye injuries, prompting doctors to warn of a worrying trend despite years of public awareness campaigns.

The victims, aged between seven and 49 years, were treated for firecracker-related ocular injuries at the Ophthalmology Outpatient Department (OPD) of K.R. Hospital between Oct. 19 and 22.

Of the 11 cases, six sustained major injuries, while five suffered minor burns and corneal damage. One patient has lost vision in one eye, doctors confirmed.

Calling the surge in Deepavali-related eye injuries “deeply unfortunate,” ophthalmologists at K.R. Hospital said that despite repeated safety campaigns, many individuals — especially children — continue to fall victim to avoidable and often sight-threatening accidents.

“We urge parents to strictly supervise children and the public to prioritise safety by avoiding hazardous firecrackers,” the doctors said. “Such injuries are entirely preventable with caution and awareness.”