Pune, a city known for its vibrant culture and traditions, is currently facing a serious challenge in the form of banned nylon manja. Despite the government’s efforts to crack down on this hazardous material, cases of nylon manja usage continue to be reported in the city.
In the past five years, Pune police have registered a total of 16 cases involving nylon manja, with 2023 seeing the highest number of cases at seven. Unfortunately, the trend has continued into 2024, with four cases already recorded by mid-December.
So, why is nylon manja so dangerous? Well, for starters, the sharp glass-coated thread can cause deep cuts and even fatalities in humans. Recent incidents in Pune’s Market Yard and Shivane areas left two individuals seriously injured. Additionally, many birds and wildlife become entangled in the thread, leading to injuries or death. In 2023 alone, RESQ Charitable Trust reported 327 cases of birds suffering manja-related injuries.
The environmental impact of nylon manja is also a major concern, as the non-biodegradable glass and metal coating poses long-term threats to the ecosystem.
Despite the state government imposing penalties of up to ₹5,000 fines and three years of imprisonment for offenders, enforcement remains a challenge. The majority of cases are reported during Makar Sankranti, a popular kite-flying festival, and the fire department received 20 calls in 2023 to rescue birds stuck due to manja.
Efforts to address the issue are ongoing, with the police taking action and environmentalists and NGOs playing a vital role. The “Tell Us Campaign” led by Lokesh Bapat and Mukund Shinde aims to collect harmful threads and rescue injured birds, while NGOs like RESQ Charitable Trust work to raise awareness about the dangers of manja.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain, with enforcement being inconsistent and stakeholders calling for a comprehensive action plan. This plan includes strict enforcement, public awareness campaigns, collaborative cleanup initiatives, and crackdowns on manufacturers.
Ultimately, the responsibility lies with both citizens and authorities to ensure safe and environmentally friendly celebrations. By working together, Pune can lead the way in eradicating the dangers posed by nylon manja and promoting a culture of responsible kite-flying practices.
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