SANGAREDDY, TELANGANA: In a tragic incident highlighting the dangers of kite flying with hazardous strings, a 38-year-old farm labourer from Uttar Pradesh died on Wednesday after a kite string reportedly cut his throat while he was riding a two-wheeler in Fasalwadi village, Sangareddy district. Police officials said the man was on his way to purchase vegetables when the incident occurred, leading to severe injuries and eventual death.

According to preliminary reports, the string involved in the fatal accident was not synthetic or nylon-based ‘Chinese manja’, which is explicitly banned in Telangana due to its known hazards to humans, birds, and the environment. Superintendent of Police Paritosh Pankaj told reporters, “Prima facie, it does not appear to be ‘Chinese manja’; however, we will seek expert opinion and investigate scientifically.”

The kite string reportedly became entangled around the man’s neck, causing a deep laceration and heavy bleeding. Emergency services rushed him to a nearby hospital, but despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries. A case has been registered, and investigations into the circumstances of the accident are ongoing.

Recent Incidents Highlight Continuing Risk

Authorities noted that this incident is not isolated. Over the past few days, multiple cases have emerged in Hyderabad and surrounding areas where individuals sustained injuries from kite strings, some of which were severe enough to cause hospitalisation. Police have been investigating these cases and caution residents about the extreme risks posed by unsafe kite strings, particularly those made of synthetic materials.

Ahead of the Sankranti festival, when kite flying reaches its peak, the Hyderabad City Police have intensified enforcement against banned kite strings, especially ‘Chinese manja’. Over the last month alone, more than 100 cases have been registered, with police seizing large quantities of the prohibited material and arresting individuals involved in its sale, storage, or transport.

The Telangana government first banned ‘Chinese manja’ in 2016 due to its high potential for human injuries, fatal accidents, and environmental damage, particularly to birds. The synthetic nylon threads are known for being extremely thin yet highly strong, which allows them to cut through skin, ropes, and even electrical wires. The law stipulates that the sale, use, or possession of such strings is illegal, with offenders facing imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to ₹1 lakh.

Police Advisory and Enforcement Measures

In preparation for festival season, law enforcement agencies have issued detailed advisories to residents, urging them to avoid unsafe strings and take precautions when participating in kite flying activities. Police teams have been instructed to monitor public spaces, rooftops, and marketplaces for the sale and use of banned materials.

In addition, public awareness campaigns have been launched to highlight the dangers posed by synthetic kite strings, including incidents where birds become entangled and humans suffer severe lacerations. Authorities stressed that even natural or cotton strings can be dangerous if used irresponsibly, particularly in crowded areas or near roads and electrical installations.

Superintendent Pankaj emphasised that the police will not only target sellers and distributors of banned strings but also investigate any incidents of injury or death caused by kite flying. “Our priority is public safety. Any fatality or serious injury resulting from kite strings will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate legal action will be taken,” he said.

Balancing Tradition and Safety

Kite flying has been a centuries-old tradition in Telangana and across India, particularly during festivals such as Sankranti, celebrated in January. While the activity is deeply ingrained in cultural practices, authorities stress that public safety cannot be compromised for recreational purposes.

Officials are urging citizens to exercise caution, avoid dangerous strings, and follow all legal regulations. Kite enthusiasts are advised to stick to safe, biodegradable threads and ensure that flying is conducted in open areas, away from traffic, pedestrians, and power lines.

The tragic death in Sangareddy underscores the continuing risks posed by unsafe kite strings and serves as a reminder that enforcement and public awareness must go hand in hand. While traditional kite flying can be enjoyed safely, the use of hazardous synthetic materials has repeatedly led to injuries and fatalities, prompting authorities to maintain vigilance and strict action against violators.

Police have also urged community participation in reporting the illegal sale or use of banned kite strings. Citizens are encouraged to inform local authorities immediately if they spot synthetic manja being sold or used, helping prevent further accidents and deaths.

As investigations into the Sangareddy incident continue, authorities are expected to reinforce safety measures during the peak kite-flying period of the Sankranti festival, balancing cultural festivities with public safety imperatives. Meanwhile, law enforcement remains committed to curbing the circulation and use of dangerous strings to ensure that incidents like the tragic death of the 38-year-old farm labourer do not recur.