Stink bombs to deal with stone-pelters now

Lucknow: Till now, Kannauj was popular for its perfumes but the district is now might as well be known for its “stink”.

Scientists at the Kannauj-based Fragrance and Flavour Development Centre (FFDC) have now developed a new capsule — a stink bomb — that will emanate smoke and an unbearable odour.

“This has been developed keeping in mind the stone-pelters in Kashmir. The odour of the capsule is so unbearable that it will drive the stone pelters away,” said Shakti Vinay Shukla, principal director, FFDC.

The capsule will soon be handed over to the Army after getting the necessary clearance and approval from the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Union Ministry for Defence.

The best thing about the stink bomb is that it has no adverse impact on the health of humans or animals.

“The odour producing chemicals would be put in a small glass capsule, which will be fired through tear guns. As soon as the capsules fall on the ground and break open, the smoke and odour will spread,” said the director. Scientists at the defence laboratory at Gwalior will conduct the trial soon. Once it passes the trial, the capsule can be used by the Army.

Minister for micro, medium and small enterprises (MSME) Giriraj Singh has been briefed about it and it was on his insistence that the defence ministry had ordered its trial.

The Armed forces posted in the Kashmir Valley have been using pellet guns to disperse stone-pelters. This caused severe injuries, especially in the eye. While the police maintains it is a non-lethal weapon, doctors treating pellet victims say it can maim a person forever.