Independence Day 2025: Chinese manjha banned in Gurgaon; essential dos and don'ts for safe kite flying

Time of India

4 days ago

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Dos and don'ts guide for flying kites in the city on Independence Day
Use Safe Strings: Always use cotton or nylon threads. Avoid sharp or metallic strings.
Fly in Open Spaces: Choose parks, playgrounds, or open rooftops away from power lines, trees, and roads.
Check Weather: Fly kites only in calm winds; avoid stormy or rainy days.
Keep Distance from Traffic: Maintain a safe distance from moving vehicles and crowded streets.
Supervise Kids: Always supervise children while they are flying kites.
Dispose Properly: Collect broken or leftover kite strings to keep the area safe for everyone.
Follow Local Guidelines: Respect any advisory or restrictions issued by authorities.
Avoid Dangerous Strings: Don't use Chinese manjha or metal-coated threads—they can cause injuries and power cuts.
Stay Away from Power Lines: Never fly kites near electric poles, transformers, or high-voltage wires.
Don't Fly Near Roads: Avoid roads or highways to prevent accidents.
Avoid Crowded Areas: Flying kites in crowded streets can hurt pedestrians.
Don't Leave Debris: Never leave broken kites or strings hanging—they are hazardous.
No Reckless Stunts: Avoid risky maneuvers like cutting other kites near traffic or rooftops.
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With kite flying gaining momentum ahead of Independence Day, the district administration on Monday issued a strict advisory prohibiting the use of Chinese manjha, urging citizens—especially two-wheeler riders—to exercise caution and follow safety measures.Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar, citing Section 163 of the Indian Civil Protection Code 2023, directed a complete ban on the storage, sale, purchase, and use of Chinese kite strings, as well as nylon or synthetic threads, within the district.The order highlighted the high risk of injuries, accidents, and public disturbances associated with these materials during kite flying.It further warned that violators would face legal action under Section 223 of the Indian Justice Code 2023. Authorities urged residents to fully comply with the ban and refrain from trading or using any Chinese or synthetic kite strings.The administration also reminded citizens that selling, storing, or using synthetic or metal powder-coated kite strings is punishable. Residents were cautioned against flying kites near power lines, busy roads, highways, or restricted airspace, and against retrieving kites caught in power lines due to the danger of fatal electric shocks from metallic threads.Prabhat Kumar, a resident of Sector 7, remarked, "Chinese manjha is easily available in the market. Issuing a ban is good, but authorities must ensure these are removed from shelves as well."