Hyderabad Police announces special surveillance against Chinese Manja

The Hyderabad Police have taken up a special surveillance as a deterrent on the sale of banned Chinese manja for kite flying during Sankranti, as it endangers both birds and people riding two-wheelers.

Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar said that clear instructions have been given to field officers to curb the use of Chinese manja during Sankranti festivities. Both task force personnel and the local police force would conduct raids at kite-selling centres, small grocery shops, and warehouses across the city.

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Strict action is being taken against the sale and storage of the banned Chinese manja. He emphasised that no leniency will be shown if anyone is found illegally selling or storing this manja, which is dangerous for both birds and bikers.

The top cop warned that criminal cases would be immediately registered against violators along with stringent legal action. The police have increased surveillance not only on sellers but also on transport services and courier companies to stop the illegal transportation of the banned manja from other states to Telangana.

The commissioner noted that kite flying was an important tradition during the Sankranti festival but it should not endanger the lives of others. Urging parents to guide their wards on the use of traditional thread for kite flying, the commissioner said Chinese manja was coated with plastic and other synthetic material, which can sever the fingers of the children and the neck of two-wheeler riders if they run into it. The metallic substances on the Chinese manja can also cause electrocution if the thread comes into contact with power lines, he warned.

Two years ago, an armyman died after his throat was slit by the Chinese Manja while he was riding his two-wheeler to work at Golconda.

Since the synthetic Chinese manja is not biodegradable, it causes severe harm to the environment. It can remain in the soil for years without decomposition. Under the Environment Protection Act of 1986, there is a complete ban on the manufacture, sale, storage and use of this kind of manja.

The police commissioner urged the residents of the city to inform the police if they found anyone selling or using Chinese manja.