From humans to birds and animals, how the Chinese manja used to fly kites on Makar Sankranti can cause fatal injuries

Despite being banned by the National Green Tribunal in 2017, Chinese manja continues to be sold clandestinely. Under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita 2023, its use is punishable with fines of INR 5,000 or imprisonment for up to one year. But laws alone cannot safeguard lives—it’s upon us to act responsibly. But first, let’s understand how it is harmful.

The environmental impact of Chinese manja is equally alarming (Express Photo by Praveen Khanna)

Why is Chinese manja harmful?

Deadly for Birds and Animals

Every year, thousands of birds bear the brunt of Chinese manja. Sharp, non-biodegradable, and coated with crushed glass, it causes fatal injuries to birds mid-flight. As per Ahmedabad’s Jivdaya Charitable Trust, 4,000 birds were injured in the city during the 2024 festival alone.

Dangerous to Humans

The threat isn’t limited to animals. Glass-coated threads have caused severe injuries and even fatalities among humans. Earlier this week, a Meerut man lost his life after being cut by a manja. Motorcyclists, unaware of low-hanging kite strings, often sustain life-threatening cuts.

Environmental Threats

The environmental impact of Chinese manja is equally alarming. As it is non-biodegradable, discarded strings linger for years, clogging drains, polluting water bodies, and posing a persistent risk to terrestrial and marine wildlife.

What can you do?

1. Switch to eco-friendly alternatives: Traditional cotton threads are a safer, biodegradable option that aligns with festival spirit.
2. Report illegal vendors: Inform authorities about any ongoing sale of Chinese manja.
3. Rescue and report injuries: Keep a list of local bird helplines handy and act quickly to help injured animals.
4. Dispose responsibly: Avoid littering kite strings and materials in public spaces or water bodies.

This year, let’s celebrate Makar Sankranti by looking beyond mere tradition and embracing empathy.