Cyberabad police warn against deadly Chinese manja ahead of Sankranti

The Cyberabad Police have issued a stern advisory against the use and sale of nylon and Chinese manja, citing grave risks to humans, animals, and birds. The warning follows several incidents where two-wheeler riders sustained severe neck injuries from sharp kite strings coated with glass or metal.

Hyderabad: The Cyberabad police have issued a public advisory warning against the use and sale of nylon and Chinese manja, describing it as a serious threat to human life, animals and birds.

The warning follows a series of recent incidents in which two-wheeler riders suffered severe neck injuries after coming into contact with sharp kite strings coated with glass powder or metal.

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According to police, areas such as Miyapur–Chandanagar main road, Madhapur, Hitec City, Kukatpally, and Gachibowli have witnessed alarming incidents in recent weeks.

In one case at Balanagar, a biker sustained serious neck injuries after a manja string suddenly wrapped around his neck amid moving traffic.

Police noted that kites flying from rooftops often leave strings tangled on trees, electric lines, and hanging over roads, turning them into hidden death traps.

Chinese manja, made of nylon and synthetic fibres with glass or metal coating, is extremely sharp and can cause deep cuts, heavy bleeding, and even fatal injuries within seconds. The danger extends beyond humans, with birds getting trapped mid-air and animals like dogs and cattle suffering injuries to their legs and bodies.

The Cyberabad police said that 53 cases have already been registered this year against illegal sellers of Chinese manja.

Authorities reiterated that the sale, storage, transport, and use of such manja are illegal and will invite strict legal action.

Police have urged citizens to use only cotton thread for kite flying, avoid flying kites near roads, power lines, and crowded areas, and ensure children are supervised at all times.

Two-wheeler riders have been advised to wear helmets and maintain moderate speed during the kite-flying season.