Monday, 12 AUGUST 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Experts have highlighted the need for stringent actions by the State government against the sellers of Chinese Manja- used by some for flying kites- emphasising its potential risks to both humans and animals. Despite the ban on this product, the demand for glass-coated kite strings remains prevalent in the city, with many sellers still including Chinese Manja with kite purchases. Regarding this, experts pointed out the detrimental effects associated with the use of Chinese Manja.
Notably, the tradition of kite flying is primarily seen during Independence Day and Rakshabandhan in Dehradun and other parts of the State. In preparation for these occasions, the city market becomes inundated with various types of kites and strings.
A kite seller near Raja Road area of Dehradun, Mayank Saini added that he is currently offering both Indian and Chinese Manja at his store. He noted that despite the ban, customers continue to request Chinese Manja due to its superior durability compared to the Indian variant. He pointed out that the trend of kite-flying is predominant among teenagers, who often engage in kite duels on occasions like Independence Day and Rakshabandhan. To emerge victorious in these matches, teenagers prefer Chinese Manja for its ability to cut the kite strings of their opponents, he said. Saini further said that Chinese Manja is also more cost-effective than Indian Manja, which further encourages its purchase.
Other kite sellers in the city’s major market have also reported a significant customer demand for Chinese Manja over the Indian variant.
A customer Sarthak Lohri expressed a preference for using Chinese Manja exclusively when flying kites each year. He highlighted the superior durability of Chinese Manja compared to other varieties available in the market, although he has added the instances where his hands were accidentally cut while using Chinese Manja.
Regarding this, public health consultant Dr Mahesh Bhatt raised concerns regarding individuals who continue to use Chinese Manja despite the ban on its sale. Bhatt emphasised that numerous cases of neck, hand and other injuries have been linked to the use of this banned item. He condemned the ongoing use of Chinese Manja as a regrettable activity that poses risks to individuals, animals, birds and the environment. He added that the government should enforce stricter measures and take action against sellers of Chinese Manja in the market.
Animal rights activist Rubina Nitin Iyer added that that despite the ban, there are reports of people still using Chinese Manja. This string has resulted in injuries to individuals and birds, with some even losing their lives. It is imperative for the State government to actively enforce the ban and impose strict measures against sellers who continue to provide this dangerous product to customers. Additionally, the government should enhance public awareness regarding the prohibition of Chinese Manja through targeted communications, she said.
