Hyderabad's War on Deadly Skies: Police Target Chinese Manja

Traffic & Road Safety

Posted by AI on 2026-01-12 14:14:11 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-05 05:20:57

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As the vibrant festival of Sankranti approaches, Hyderabad's skies are set for a colorful spectacle, but the city's police are waging a different kind of battle. In a four-day operation from January 8th to 11th, the Hyderabad Police seized a staggering 2,150 spools of Chinese Manja, valued at Rs. 43 lakhs, in a bid to curb its use during the festive season. This crackdown is part of a larger campaign to protect citizens from the hidden dangers lurking in the festival's traditional kite-flying activities.

The police have taken a proactive approach, with City Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar personally directing officers to educate minors and students about the perils of this seemingly harmless string. The Chinese Manja, a sharp, glass-coated thread, has been responsible for numerous injuries and even fatalities in the past. The recent operation, which included 29 registered cases and 57 arrests, follows last month's efforts, where 132 cases were filed, and a massive 8,376 spools were seized, amounting to Rs. 1.68 crores, with 200 arrests made.

This year's Sankranti festival will see heightened vigilance, with the police determined to make a difference. Their strategy includes direct engagement with the community, especially the youth, to raise awareness about the potential hazards of this festive tradition. By targeting the source and educating the public, the Hyderabad Police aim to ensure a safer celebration, where the joy of kite flying doesn't come at the cost of public safety.

With the festival just around the corner, the police's proactive measures are a timely reminder of the importance of responsible celebrations. The success of this campaign will be measured not only by the number of seizures and arrests but also by the reduction in related injuries and fatalities, ultimately fostering a safer environment for Hyderabad's residents during this festive period.

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