Aravind Eye Care System reports 1,464 crackers-related eye injuries during Deepavali festivities

MADURAI An alarming surge in festive hazards has been brought to light following a comprehensive analysis released by the Aravind Eye Care System, which documented 1,464 patients treated for firecracker-related eye injuries over a strict six-day period from November 4 to November 9, 2026. According to Usha Kim, Regional Director (HR), Aravind Eye Care System, the data paints a troubling picture of public safety, revealing that children bear the brunt of these seasonal accidents, accounting for more than half of all cases.

Specifically, 834 patients under the age of 18—representing 57% of the total caseload—suffered ocular trauma, with the 6 to 12 age group emerging as the most vulnerable demographic at 33.8% (495 patients). Toddlers aged 0 to 5 years accounted for another 151 cases (10.3%), while teenagers between 13 and 17 years made up 12.8% of the injured young population, she added.

The demographic breakdown further highlights distinct risk patterns among victims, showing that males were disproportionately affected.