Hyderabad Kite-String Tragedy Prompts Telangana Ban on Dangerous Manja

A 38-year-old farm labourer from Uttar Pradesh died on Wednesday after a kite string cut his throat while he was riding a two-wheeler in Fasalwadi village, Sangareddy district, Telangana. Preliminary investigations suggest the kite string was not 'Chinese manja' (synthetic/nylon string), officials said. The case has been registered and investigations are ongoing. The incident comes as Hyderabad City Police step up enforcement ahead of Sankranti to curb the sale, storage, and transport of the banned string. Over the past month, police have registered more than 100 cases, seized the string, and arrested those involved in its sale.

The Telangana government banned 'Chinese manja' in 2016 due to threats to humans, birds, and the environment. Sale and use of the string is illegal and punishable with imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of up to ₹1 lakh, police added. Officials said they will seek expert opinion to confirm the material and investigate scientifically.

The rise of deadly kite-string injuries has prompted officials to push for safer alternatives and public awareness; other incidents have also occurred recently in the city where strings cut throats. Experts warn that even non-synthetic strings can pose risks if coated with glass or other hazards, and authorities say the ban applies to all dangerous strings. The investigation continues as officials aim to determine whether the cord that injured the UP migrant qualifies as Chinese manjha or a similar dangerous string.

As Sankranti approaches, residents are urged to celebrate safely using approved safety lines, and sellers and transporters caught with illegal strings face criminal penalties. The crackdown underscores ongoing public-safety efforts linked to the festival across Telangana.

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