In a serious public safety incident highlighting the continued threat posed by banned Chinese manja, two people sustained critical injuries after a glass-coated kite string became entangled around their necks while they were traveling on a motorcycle in Cuttack’s Bayalish Mouza area on Tuesday morning.
The incident occurred around 10:00 AM in the Brahmapur Shriram locality, as the city prepares for the upcoming Makar Sankranti festival, a period marked by increased kite flying. The injured individuals, identified as Devi Kalyan Acharya and Asalata Acharya, were riding a two-wheeler when a stray synthetic manja string suddenly wrapped around them, causing deep neck injuries and severe bleeding.
Local residents responded swiftly, transporting the victims to a nearby hospital. Medical professionals confirmed that both individuals remain in serious but stable condition, noting that prompt medical attention prevented life-threatening consequences.
This incident follows another manja-related accident reported earlier the same day, in which Aniket Das, a young commuter traveling from Trisulia to Cuttack, suffered serious injuries to his neck and hand after coming into contact with a banned kite string.
Rising Manja-Related Accidents in Cuttack
Authorities acknowledge that such incidents are becoming increasingly frequent despite a statewide ban on Chinese manja. Just two weeks earlier, on December 15, a motorcyclist sustained a similar neck injury near the Bell View area and required hospitalization.
Earlier this month, on December 11, the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) enforcement team seized four bags of illegal Chinese manja during a raid in the Jhola Sahi area. Officials stated that the confiscated material could have caused numerous serious injuries during the festive season.
Data Shows a Concerning Trend
Official records indicate that at least 12 people have been injured by Chinese manja in Cuttack in 2025 alone, compared to six injuries each in 2023 and 2024. Over the past 11 years, the city has reported four fatalities and 35 serious injuries linked to the hazardous kite strings, many involving severe neck wounds.
Pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheeler riders remain particularly vulnerable. In addition to human injuries, environmental groups report significant harm to birds, with many suffering fatal injuries after becoming entangled in the sharp strings during kite-flying festivals.
Authorities Urge Caution Ahead of Makar Sankranti
With Makar Sankranti on January 14, 2026, police and municipal authorities have intensified patrols and inspections across markets and residential areas. However, community members and activists continue to call for stricter enforcement, sustained awareness campaigns, and stronger penalties for violators.
Residents are urged to avoid synthetic kite strings and use only safe cotton threads, as well as report illegal sales to local authorities. Officials reiterate that the ban on Chinese manja is intended to protect lives, public safety, and wildlife.
This latest incident serves as a stark reminder that without consistent enforcement and public cooperation, festive celebrations can quickly turn dangerous.
