Nylon kite strings pose threat to avian biodiversity

The Kangra Forest Department successfully rescued two birds—a severely injured eagle and a falcon—trapped in deadly nylon kite strings. While the eagle is expected to recover and be released back into the wild, the falcon has suffered a tragic fate, losing one of its wings permanently. Once treated, the falcon will be sent to the Gopalpur Zoo, as it will never be able to fly again.

Range Officer Saurav Sharma informed The Tribune that both birds are out of immediate danger and are currently being kept in designated cages at the RO office. They are receiving treatment from Dr Sarvesh Gupta, a dedicated bird lover, who is working tirelessly to ensure their recovery.

Expressing concern over the increasing threats posed by nylon kite strings, Dr Gupta appealed to kite enthusiasts to stop using these hazardous threads, which are proving fatal for birds and also pose risks to human lives.

The tradition of flying kites, especially during the spring season, has been followed for generations. However, the modern nylon and Chinese kite strings, which are razor-sharp and non-biodegradable, have become a serious threat to both avian and human life. The Forest Department, along with local communities, has urged the administration to take strict action against the sale and use of such strings.

According to reports, concerned citizens informed the Kangra Forest Department about the birds struggling in the entangling threads. A rescue team, led by Deputy Ranger Munish Panjlu, responded immediately, rescuing the birds and ensuring they received medical attention.

Kangra DSP Ankit Sharma reaffirmed that the use of nylon kite strings is completely banned in the district. He

warned that anyone found selling these strings would face strict legal action. Kangra, home to a record number of vultures, is on the verge of being declared India’s first vulture-safe district. Additionally, Pong Lake and other reservoirs in the region attract thousands of migratory birds every year. Bird lovers fear that such incidents pose a serious threat to Kangra’s rich avian biodiversity.

Authorities and conservationists are now calling for more awareness and strict enforcement of the ban to prevent further harm to birds and humans alike.