Chinese Manjha for kite flying: Delhi govt bars usage ahead of Independence Day, Raksha Bandhan

Ahead of the occasions of Independence Day and Raksha Bandhan, in which kite-flying is considered to be a vital tradition, Delhi government has warned of punitive action against people found using or selling Chinese manjha in the capital.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Wednesday said that possible penalties for the violation of the ban on Chinese Manjha are five years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh.

The Delhi government has directed Delhi Production Control Committee (DPCC) to strictly implement the ban on sale, production, storage, supply, and import of Chinese Manjha in Delhi during the upcoming festive season, a government statement read.

The officials of revenue, wildlife, police and municipal corporations have also been directed to take punitive action against any violations of the ban.

Kite flying in Delhi peaks around August 15. The use of Chinese manjha during this activity results in unfortunate incidents every year.

"The use and sale of glass-coated nylon thread is prohibited since January 10, 2017. Still, many people violate the ban which sometimes causes fatal injuries to people, birds and animals," Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said.

The Delhi Police, Revenue Department, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Transport Department, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, eco-clubs schools and colleges have been instructed to educate people about the ban on the Chinese manjha, he said.