Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, is grappling with a persistent issue despite a ban on nylon manja, a dangerous kite-flying thread. The ban, enforced in 2017, was meant to curb the use of glass-coated manja due to its harmful impact on humans, animals, and the environment. However, recent data from the Pune Police reveals that cases related to nylon manja have not decreased significantly over the years. In fact, 16 cases have been registered in the city over the past five years, with a peak of seven cases in 2023.
Even in 2024, with four cases recorded so far, the sale of nylon manja continues to pose serious risks. The thread, often used during the Makar Sankranti festival, has been found to cause injuries to both humans and wildlife. In 2023 alone, 327 cases of manja-related injuries were reported, with 40 birds brought to a non-governmental organization with injuries caused by manja in the first 17 days of January 2024.
Despite penalties that include fines of up to ₹5,000 and imprisonment for up to three years for offenders, the harmful glass-coated threads are still being sold. The Pune Fire Department has received numerous calls about birds entangled in manja strings, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter enforcement of the ban.
Local organizations like Tell Us in Pune have been actively raising awareness about the dangers of manja and conducting drives to clean up debris left behind by kite flying. However, they have criticized the Pune Municipal Corporation for not taking stronger action against the use and manufacturing of nylon manja.
The Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) in Pune has emphasized the importance of enforcing the ban and urged citizens to opt for eco-friendly alternatives made from natural fibers like cotton and hemp. With Makar Sankranti approaching, the Pune Police have announced plans to take stricter action to curb the sale of the banned material.
As the city continues to grapple with the issue of nylon manja, it is clear that concerted efforts from law enforcement, local organizations, and citizens are needed to protect human safety and the environment from this hazardous thread.
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