Experts call for designated kite-flying zones to prevent manja injuries | Bhubaneswar News
Cuttack: In response to rising cases of manja-related injuries during Makar Sankranti, road safety experts have proposed establishing designated kite-flying zones in open grounds and riverbeds on the outskirts of Cuttack.
The city reported five manja-related injuries within three days, highlighting the dangers posed by the glass or metal-coated threads, particularly to two-wheeler riders.
“Restricting kite flying to open grounds and riverbeds beyond city limits will significantly reduce the threat to commuters,” said road safety expert Bikash Mohapatra. He emphasised that Cuttack’s geographical advantage, being surrounded by rivers and open spaces, could help preserve the kite-flying tradition while ensuring public safety.
In a recent incident, 42-year-old Aniket Das narrowly escaped a fatal accident on Trisulia bridge. “The thread govt wrapped around my neck, and I lost balance. It’s terrifying to think what could have happened,” said Das, who sustained neck injuries.
Environmentalist and safety expert Asutosh Devata emphasised the hazards of manja thread. “These threads, made with chemicals and glass, pose serious risks to humans, wildlife and birds,” he said. Devata suggested allowing only licenced shops to sell eco-friendly cotton threads and called for proper enforcement during the festival.
Road safety activist Minati Bindhani said, “The issue is not just about regulations but also awareness. People need to understand the environmental and safety risks of manja thread. There must be proper awareness regarding open spaces for kite flying instead of roads and rooftops. Authorities must conduct a drive, and social media can be the best tool to spread such awareness,” she added.
Ornithologist Dr Priya Sahu emphasised the impact on birds. “Manja threads are responsible for countless bird injuries during the kite-flying season. Shifting kite-flying activities to safer, open areas will help minimise these incidents and promote a more eco-friendly celebration.”
Cuttack mayor Subhash Singh said, “We are considering steps to address this issue and will identify specific open areas for kite flying during Makar Sankranti.”
The city reported five manja-related injuries within three days, highlighting the dangers posed by the glass or metal-coated threads, particularly to two-wheeler riders.
“Restricting kite flying to open grounds and riverbeds beyond city limits will significantly reduce the threat to commuters,” said road safety expert Bikash Mohapatra. He emphasised that Cuttack’s geographical advantage, being surrounded by rivers and open spaces, could help preserve the kite-flying tradition while ensuring public safety.
In a recent incident, 42-year-old Aniket Das narrowly escaped a fatal accident on Trisulia bridge. “The thread govt wrapped around my neck, and I lost balance. It’s terrifying to think what could have happened,” said Das, who sustained neck injuries.
Environmentalist and safety expert Asutosh Devata emphasised the hazards of manja thread. “These threads, made with chemicals and glass, pose serious risks to humans, wildlife and birds,” he said. Devata suggested allowing only licenced shops to sell eco-friendly cotton threads and called for proper enforcement during the festival.
Road safety activist Minati Bindhani said, “The issue is not just about regulations but also awareness. People need to understand the environmental and safety risks of manja thread. There must be proper awareness regarding open spaces for kite flying instead of roads and rooftops. Authorities must conduct a drive, and social media can be the best tool to spread such awareness,” she added.
Ornithologist Dr Priya Sahu emphasised the impact on birds. “Manja threads are responsible for countless bird injuries during the kite-flying season. Shifting kite-flying activities to safer, open areas will help minimise these incidents and promote a more eco-friendly celebration.”
Cuttack mayor Subhash Singh said, “We are considering steps to address this issue and will identify specific open areas for kite flying during Makar Sankranti.”
