As the festival of Makar Sankranti approaches, Nashik city police have intensified their action against the sale and use of banned nylon manja—the sharp kite string that poses serious danger to humans, animals, and birds.

What’s Happening?

Every year during Makar Sankranti, kite flying becomes a popular activity across Nashik. But alongside the vibrant festival comes the threat of nylon manja, which is illegal due to its thin, sharp nature that can cut through skin, injure riders, and harm wildlife.

This year, the Nashik city police — especially Crime Branch Unit teams — have launched strict surveillance and raids across the city to stop illegal nylon manja activity.

Major Police Actions

✔️ Large-scale seizure: Around 101 reels of nylon manja worth over ₹1 lakh were seized in a recent operation between the Mumbai Naka and Bharatnagar areas. A 22-year-old vendor was detained and booked under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Environment (Protection) Act.

✔️ Warnings to sellers: Police officials, including Commissioner Sandeep Karnik and senior crime staff, have warned that anyone caught selling nylon manja will face harsh penalties, including temporary externment (removal from city limits for 10-15 days) during the festival.

✔️ Multiple raids: Local teams have also caught other vendors selling smaller quantities, and cases continue to be registered across different Nashik neighborhoods.

Why This Matters

Despite the statewide ban, nylon manja continues to be circulated and used secretly — putting people and animals at risk. These threads may seem harmless, but they are very strong and notoriously hard to see in the air, especially at dusk, which can lead to:

• Severe injuries to two-wheeler riders and pedestrians

• Accidental cuts to birds and pets

• Tangling in trees, power lines, and rooftops

• Serious accidents even far from kite flying spots

What Police Advice You Should Follow

👉 Avoid using nylon manja — stick to safer eco-friendly alternatives like cotton kite strings.
👉 If you see illegal nylon manja being sold, report it to local police immediately.
👉 Community awareness and responsible kite flying help keep Nashik safe during this festive season.