Varanasi, Jan 11 (NationPress) As Varanasi gears up for the eagerly awaited Makar Sankranti festival, a rising concern regarding Chinese Manjha - the hazardous synthetic kite string - has overtaken the local community. Following a spate of tragic accidents and injuries linked to this sharp, unregulated kite string, residents are taking protective steps, such as securing mufflers around their necks, while others are perpetually anxious.
In recent weeks, two heartbreaking fatalities have been reported, along with over a dozen injuries due to Chinese Manjha, intensifying worries. In response, local authorities have amplified their efforts to regulate the sale and utilization of Chinese Manjha. Officials have declared that anyone caught selling or purchasing this hazardous string will face stringent repercussions, including the potential for FIRs in cases resulting in injury or death. Despite these measures, residents continue to express their apprehensions.
Rakesh, a local resident, shared his worries: "I believe Varanasi police should enforce stringent actions regarding this issue. People are using mufflers, but that isn’t a sustainable solution. We pay road taxes, and if someone gets injured or loses their life, it’s a tremendous loss for their family. The authorities must act decisively."
Another concerned citizen, Vachashvapati Mishra, emphasized: "We need to completely oppose Chinese Manjha. We've heard about severe incidents, including injuries and fatalities. Individuals are now wearing mufflers for protection, but it’s insufficient. It should be entirely banned."
Satya Prakash, another Varanasi local, urged the administration to implement robust actions. "The authorities need to detain anyone responsible, whether it's a shopkeeper or an individual selling the perilous string. We are all living in fear, and I even advise my family to wear Gamcha or mufflers for their safety."
In light of the growing concerns, Additional Commissioner of Police S. Chanappa assured that the police are taking the issue seriously. "We have already apprehended several individuals involved in the sale of Chinese Manjha, and stringent actions will be taken against anyone responsible. If minors are discovered to be involved, we will hold their parents accountable."
Makar Sankranti, the annual festival that signifies the sun's transition into Capricorn, will be celebrated on January 14 this year. Known for its kite-flying traditions, this festival has now become a contentious issue due to the dangers posed by Chinese Manjha. The festival holds cultural importance across India, where it is celebrated under various names such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Uttarayana in Gujarat, and Maghi in Punjab, among others.
As the Punya Kaal (auspicious period) coincides with the same day, from 9.03 a.m. to 5.46 p.m., marking the time for rituals and prayers, authorities are urging citizens to observe the festival safely - without the looming shadow of fear overshadowing the joy of kite-flying.
