Amritsar admn imposes ban on use of synthetic kite string

The district administration has imposed a complete ban on the use and storage of nylon, plastic, or any other synthetic kite-flying string popularly known as Chinese manjha.

Additional District Magistrate Rohit Gupta, exercising powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), announced that the manufacture, sale, storage, purchase, supply and transportation of synthetic kite string that is non-biodegradable or sharpened with glass, metal, or similar substances will remain strictly prohibited in the district.

He clarified that kite flying will only be permitted with cotton thread, free from any sharp or metallic components, glass coating, adhesives, or strengthening materials.

The ADM further directed Sub-Divisional Magistrates and District Education Officers (Elementary and Secondary) to launch awareness campaigns to educate citizens, especially children, about the dangers of using plastic, nylon, or other synthetic kite strings, and of glass or metal-coated threads for kite flying.

Highlighting the risks, Gupta said that synthetic strings often cause serious injuries to people and are fatal for many birds. “Protecting citizens and birds from these harmful effects is a priority,” he stressed.

Considering the urgency of the matter, the order has been issued unilaterally and will remain in effect until November 28, 2025, he said.