Telangana: Motorist Hospitalized After Throat Slashed by Chinese Manja

Krishna Rao was initially treated at the Government General Hospital in Kothagudem before being transferred to Hyderabad for specialized care.

A motorist from Gurrayigudem village, Chandrugonda mandal in Telangana, suffered a severe throat injury reportedly caused by Chinese manja while riding his two-wheeler in Ramavaram village, Bhadradri Kothagudem district. The incident occurred as Krishna Rao was returning home ahead of the Sankranti festival, a time when kite flying is common.

As he rode, the sharp manja unexpectedly slashed his throat, causing him to fall to the ground. A passerby noticed him and rushed to help as he bled heavily. Krishna Rao was initially taken to the Government General Hospital in Kothagudem but was later transferred to Hyderabad for more advanced care.

Chinese manja, a dangerous kite string made of non-biodegradable synthetic materials, has been banned due to the significant risks it poses, especially during kite-flying seasons. Despite the ban, incidents involving injuries from Chinese manja continue to be reported.

Meanwhile, the Hyderabad police have registered 18 cases against 22 individuals for possessing banned Chinese manja. A total of 1,094 bobbins made from these harmful materials were seized from shopkeepers. Authorities have warned shopkeepers to stop selling the banned manja, promising severe action for non-compliance.

In addition, the police have conducted meetings with shopkeepers and customers in Mangalhat and surrounding areas, urging safety precautions while flying kites. They recommended flying kites only from buildings with compound walls or railings to prevent accidents and emphasized avoiding the purchase of Chinese manja to protect human lives, birds, and animals.

On December 21, the Mangalhat police arrested three individuals after raiding two shops and seizing Chinese manja worth Rs. 4.26 lakhs. The accused, Vinay Raj Singh, Anoop Singh, and Shanker Singh, were found illegally selling the hazardous kite string. A case has been registered against them.

Why is Chinese Manja Dangerous?

Chinese manja, often made from synthetic materials like nylon and coated with glass powder or metal, is known for its sharpness and ability to cause serious injuries. It can cut through skin, leading to deep cuts or even fatalities. Additionally, birds can get entangled in the string, leading to injury or death, while its non-biodegradable nature adds to environmental pollution.