South Central Railway warns against kite flying near tracks after electrocutions

The South Central Railway has warned the public about electrocution risks from kite flying near railway tracks. Metallic or chemically treated threads can touch 25 kV overhead lines, threatening human life, damaging infrastructure, and causing train disruptions.

Hyderabad: The South Central Railway (SCR) has issued a strong public warning following a series of electrocution incidents linked to kite flying near railway premises.

SCR officials said during the previous Sankranti festival season, cases were reported across different railway zones where people suffered severe electric shocks and, in some instances, lost their lives after kite strings came into contact with high-voltage overhead lines.

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Railway officials highlighted that the use of Chinese-imported kite threads, often metallic or chemically treated, significantly increases the danger, as these threads conduct electricity. When entangled with 25 kV overhead electric traction lines, they not only threaten human life but can also damage critical railway electrical infrastructure, leading to train disruptions and safety risks for passengers and staff.

SCR has appealed to the public to strictly avoid flying kites near railway tracks, stations, yards and other installations.