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Chennai, Oct 21 (IANS) The Diwali festive mood has been spoiled for many across Tamil Nadu as hospitals have recorded a rise in the number of firecracker-related injuries, with more than 908 people suffering from burns and other injuries, officials said on Tuesday.
Despite repeated safety advisories issued by the authorities, the exuberant celebrations led to several accidents involving both adults and children.
According to state health and family welfare department officials, 584 persons were treated as outpatients for minor burns and injuries, while 324 were admitted to hospitals for serious cases.
Among the outpatients, there were 344 males, 54 females, 116 boys and 70 girls.
Among those admitted to the hospital were 248 men, 21 women, 42 boys and 13 girls.
Medical teams remained on high alert across the state throughout the festivities.
Doctors performed 85 major surgeries and 380 minor procedures, while 93 patients received specialized eye care for eye injuries caused by firecracker explosions.
Cuddalore district reported the highest number of cases with 29 injuries, followed by Tiruvannamalai (25), Madurai (21), and Tiruchirappalli (18).
In Chennai, 16 people were admitted to the Stanley Government Hospital with burn injuries of varying degrees.
Health officials said emergency wards in major hospitals have been kept operational round the clock to handle the sudden increase in the number of patients.
“We ensured that all government hospitals were equipped with additional staff, medical supplies and ambulances in anticipation of festival-related emergencies,” a senior health official said.
Despite the worrying data, doctors noted that most patients were responding well to treatment.
“The condition of most of them is stable and they are expected to recover soon,” the official said.
Authorities have once again urged people to strictly follow safety guidelines while bursting crackers.
He stressed the importance of maintaining safe distance, using protective gear and avoiding high-decibel or illegal fireworks to prevent similar accidents during the remaining festive days.
As Diwali celebrations continue in some parts of the state, health officials reiterated their appeal for responsible celebrations to ensure that joy does not turn into tragedy.
–IANS
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