Kids fly kites on BRTS tracks oblivious of danger

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, January 13

While putting their lives at risk, a large number of children can be seen flying and catching kites on tracks of the bus rapid transit system (BRTS) project and other roads of the city. It seems that officials of the district administration are helpless to stop them despite being aware of the practice.

Moreover, parents of children are least concerned about their safety. Children from the nearby residential areas have found the BRTS route as best place to fly and catch kites. Besides, a large number of them can be seen flying kites on roads and streets in the city.

It has been observed that children are not scared of the traffic moving around them. A number of children in groups were seen flying kites on roads during Lohri celebrations today.

A policeman at Putalighar Chowk said, “All efforts to keep children away from road have proved futile. They come on roads as there is no space to play in their localities. They use the BRTS tracks, where buses speed and can be dangerous for them.”

A commuter Davinder Singh said, “Most are children from the low- income groups. They not only put their lives at risk, but also pose a threat to commuters. The authorities have to make efforts to curb this dangerous practice.”

A resident Harvinder Singh said, “Despite the ban most enthusiasts fly kites with plastic string, which is fatal for humans, animals and birds. Commuters are often injured on roads, when they come in contact with the Chinese string.”

He said, “Several residents have suffered injuries while driving two-wheelers. Kids flying kites on roads are major cause of accidents. The administration has to take some action to save lives.”