Banned Kite String Claims Life of Five-Year-Old in Hyderabad

The tragic death of a five-year-old girl in Hyderabad has reignited serious safety concerns regarding the use of banned kite string, known as Chinese manja. On January 26, 2024, Nishvika Aditya lost her life after a kite string became entangled around her neck while she was riding on a motorcycle with her family in the Kukatpally area.

The accident occurred as her father drove the motorcycle, with Nishvika seated in front and her elder sister behind. Police reports indicate that the string inflicted a deep cut, causing severe bleeding that led to her death at the scene. This incident marks a grim reminder of the dangers posed by this hazardous material, which remains prevalent despite legal prohibitions.

Previous Incidents and Ongoing Risks

This recent tragedy is not an isolated case. Just twelve days earlier, on January 14, 2024, a 35-year-old migrant worker named Avidesh was killed in Sangareddy district when a sharp kite string cut his neck while he was also riding a motorcycle. Authorities have reported that over a dozen people have suffered injuries from similar incidents in Hyderabad and surrounding regions this month, including a police assistant sub-inspector and a 70-year-old woman.

The lethal nature of Chinese manja has previously claimed lives, notably that of Indian Army Naik Kagithala Koteswar Reddy, who died last year after suffering a throat injury caused by the string while riding a scooter on the Indra Reddy flyover. His subsequent death in the hospital highlighted the severe risks associated with this type of kite string.

Authorities Intensify Enforcement Efforts

Despite the existing ban on Chinese manja, its use surged during the recent Sankranti festival, prompting local authorities to implement stricter enforcement measures. Between January 8 and January 11, Hyderabad Police seized 2,150 bobbins of the hazardous string, valued at approximately Rs 43 lakh, and registered 29 cases, leading to the arrest of 57 individuals involved in its sale or distribution.

In total, authorities have recorded 132 cases over the past month, confiscated 8,376 bobbins worth Rs 1.68 crore, and apprehended around 200 people. Officials have emphasized their commitment to continued enforcement, as the dangerous practice continues to impact public safety.

The heart-wrenching incident involving Nishvika Aditya serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with illegal kite-flying materials. As police investigations continue to determine those responsible for flying kites with prohibited strings, the focus remains on preventing further tragedies and ensuring community safety.