The use of banned nylon manja during kite flying poses a significant threat to birds, leading to life-threatening injuries and even deaths among nestlings, according to a recent report from the RESQ Charitable Trust and the Maharashtra Forest Department. The report highlights the dangers posed by the nylon manja stuck in trees, which continues to endanger birds throughout the year.

In 2024, Pune city reported nearly 700 bird injuries related to manja, a sharp rise from the 327 cases in 2023. Of these, 125 cases were registered in December alone. The report emphasizes that the surge in injuries reflects a failure in the enforcement of the ban on nylon manja. The material, known for its sharpness and durability, often becomes entangled in trees and buildings, causing significant harm to birds and even two-wheeler riders.

Nachiket Utpat, Director of Wildlife Conservation at RESQ Charitable Trust, urged citizens to check their neighborhoods for stray manja threads and remove them or contact local teams to mitigate the risks. Despite being banned by the Bombay High Court, the sale and use of nylon manja continue to result in casualties, highlighting the urgent need for stricter enforcement.