The National Green Tribunal has temporarily banned the use of manja, a sharp kite string coated with glass or metal paste, due to its harmful effects. The decision, made on December 14, aims to reduce injuries and deaths caused by the dangerous thread, which has led to accidents involving children, motorcyclists, and even birds.
The ban includes various forms of manja, such as glass-coated nylon and Chinese-imported strings, but allows traditional biodegradable fabric strings. The ban will remain in place until the next hearing on February 1, 2017. Kite-flyers often use manja during festivals like Makar Sankranti and Independence Day for aerial duels, but these activities have been linked to numerous deaths and severe injuries.
The tribunal's ruling follows a petition from PETA, which highlighted the risks of manja, including electrocution from contact with power lines. The Delhi government had previously banned the string after several fatalities during the Independence Day holidays. Violators now face a five-year jail term and a fine of Rs 1 lakh.
The ban also addresses the environmental and animal welfare concerns raised by the use of manja. The tribunal directed the Manja Association of India to report on the harmful effects of such kite strings to the Central Pollution Control Board.