New Delhi: Kite flying is a beloved tradition during the Independence Day celebrations in Delhi. Although it might seem like harmless and enjoyable fun, it can actually be risky for birds. The main issue isn’t flying kites, but the use of Chinese manjha (strings) that have metal coatings. These strings can put both kite flyers and birds in danger. Cases of more bird injuries are coming at the moment due to Chinese manjha strings, as per a doctor at a bird hospital in Delhi’s Chandini Chowk. “I’ve been working at this bird hospital for four years. We take care of all kinds of birds, from sick ones to those that are injured. Sometimes, the bones of the birds are broken because of the manjha. With August 15 approaching, we expect even more cases like this,” said Haravtar Singh, a doctor at the bird hospital in Delhi.
Chinese manjha, according to kite vendor Anil Kumar Jaiswal, is hazardous to people and the environment, and instead, he suggests using cotton thread for kites.
“Chinese manjha is harmful to the environment, and it poses a threat to humans as well. This is the reason we don’t wish to sell it. The association has asked us not to use it. The cotton thread should be used,” he said.
In response to this issue, earlier this month, Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai appealed to the people not to use Chinese manjha and warned that punitive action would be taken against anyone found using or selling it.
Moreover, the Delhi government has issued instructions to all concerned departments to ban the use of Chinese manjha.
