Nagpur police have intensified their fight against illegal and hazardous kite-flying materials, following the arrest of a man in the Sakkardara area for possession and planned sale of banned nylon manja. Officers seized 49 reels of the dangerous synthetic thread along with other materials valued at over ₹1.63 lakh, marking one of the significant enforcement actions ahead of the festive season.
This incident highlights how the trade of illegal manja continues despite strict government bans and ongoing awareness campaigns. The latest seizure serves as a reminder of the serious risks these sharp, synthetic threads pose to people, birds, and the environment.
What Happened in Sakkardara?
Police acted on specific information about illegal stockpiling of nylon manja, which led them to a suspect allegedly preparing the reels for sale. During the raid, officers recovered:
- 49 reels of Chinese-style nylon manja
- Tools and materials used for packing and distribution
- A two-wheeler and communication devices
- Total items worth ₹1.63 lakh
The suspect was taken into custody and booked under laws that prohibit the manufacture, storage, sale, and use of dangerous synthetic kite-flying threads.
Why Nylon Manja Is Strictly Banned
Although kite flying is a cherished tradition in India, synthetic manja has become a major safety and environmental hazard. Nylon manja, often coated with sharp particles, is banned due to:
1. Threat to Human Life
The sharp thread can cause deep, life-threatening injuries, especially to two-wheeler riders who may come into contact with stray manja on roads. Many past accidents across India have resulted in severe cuts and fatalities.
2. Danger to Birds and Animals
Birds often get entangled in the tough, non-biodegradable thread, leading to broken wings, injuries, or death. Stray animals and pets also face similar risks when manja gets caught around their legs or neck.
3. Environmental Damage
Nylon and synthetic threads do not decompose easily. They remain tangled on trees, rooftops, and electric lines, creating long-term environmental waste and increasing the risk of electrical faults.
4. Violation of Law
The ban on nylon manja is enforced under environmental laws and municipal regulations. Manufacturing, storing, transporting, or selling it is a punishable offense.
Nagpur Police’s Continued Crackdown
Every year, especially before Makar Sankranti and festive kite-flying periods, police launch special drives to stop the circulation of banned manja. Large stocks are seized and destroyed to prevent them from reaching markets.
This recent action in Sakkardara shows that:
- Illegal supply chains still attempt to operate discreetly
- Police surveillance and community inputs are helping intercept such activities
- Authorities are committed to ensuring safer celebrations for citizens
How Citizens Can Help Keep the City Safe
To support safety and protect the environment, residents are urged to:
- Avoid buying nylon or synthetic manja
- Always choose safe, cotton-based threads
- Report suspicious storage or sale of banned materials
- Educate young kite flyers about the dangers
- Ensure children do not use sharp or abrasive threads
A small switch to eco-friendly manja can save lives and prevent countless injuries.
