Fri Jan 03 19:11:28 UTC 2025: ## Hyderabad Police Crack Down on Illegal Chinese Manja Ahead of Makara Sankranthi

**Hyderabad, January 4, 2025** – In a pre-Makara Sankranthi crackdown, Hyderabad City Police seized 987 bobbins of banned Chinese manja and arrested several individuals in a city-wide operation. The initiative, overseen by Commissioner of Police CV Anand, involved multiple police zones and resulted in 14 cases being registered on Friday alone. The largest seizure occurred in Afzalgunj (East Zone) with 360 bobbins confiscated, followed by significant seizures in Tappachabutra (South-East Zone) and Asif Nagar (South Zone).

Chinese manja, a synthetic kite string coated with hazardous materials, poses significant risks to public safety, wildlife, and the environment. The string’s sharp edges cause injuries and fatalities, particularly among motorcyclists and pedestrians, while its non-biodegradable nature contributes to environmental pollution. Its sale and use are prohibited under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986, with penalties including up to five years imprisonment and a ₹1 lakh fine.

The police operation builds on previous efforts. In 2023, 2,217 bobbins were seized in 39 cases, while 2024 saw a more than doubling of seizures to 6,261 bobbins across 49 cases. The South Zone accounted for the largest number of seizures in 2024 (4,396 bobbins), while the South-West Zone reported the highest value of seized manja (₹12.49 lakh).

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Task Force), Ande Srinivasa Rao, highlighted the severe dangers posed by Chinese manja, urging citizens to report any illegal sales. The police have vowed to continue their efforts to eliminate the banned material from circulation.

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