Nagpur: The menace of banned nylon manja continues to pose significant dangers in Nagpur, with a grim history of fatalities and injuries. This year, a woman police constable (WPC) from Sitabuldi Police Station suffered injuries due to nylon manja, but proactive measures by law enforcement showcased a determined effort to curb the threat.
On January 14, 2025, the WPC sustained a severe nose injury while on her way to duty, emphasizing the persistent risks posed by illegal kite-flying threads. However, this year, Nagpur Police undertook substantial actions to tackle the menace, including multiple seizures of nylon manja rolls, arrests of offenders, and the innovative installation of safety arches on two-wheelers to protect bikers.
Past Tragedies: Lives Lost to Nylon Manja
January 15, 2023: An 11-year-old boy, Ved Krishna Sahu, tragically lost his life in the Jaripatka area when nylon manja cut his throat while riding pillion with his father. Despite immediate medical attention, Ved succumbed to his injuries, leaving the community in grief. Jaripatka Police registered a case of accidental death and launched an investigation.
January 2021: In another horrifying incident, 20-year-old Pranay Prakash Thakre was killed near Imambada after nylon manja slit his throat. The thread severed his respiratory tract, causing instant death. This was the third such fatality in just two weeks, sparking public outrage over the authorities’ failure to enforce the ban effectively. Imambada Police filed a case under Section 304(A) of the IPC and relevant sections of the Environment Protection Act against unidentified individuals.
Proactive Measures in 2025:
In response to the recurring tragedies, the Nagpur Police launched several significant measures this year to prevent accidents:
Seizure of Banned Nylon Manja: Police conducted raids across the city, confiscating hundreds of rolls of nylon manja and arresting individuals involved in its illegal sale.
Safety Arches for Two-Wheelers: Traffic Police installed specially designed steel safety arches on two-wheelers. These arches act as a protective barrier, preventing the nylon thread from reaching the rider’s neck. Motorists were also given demonstrations and guidance at key city locations.
The Way Forward:
While these efforts mark a significant step forward, past incidents remind us of the devastating impact of nylon manja. The fatalities of Ved Sahu in 2023 and Pranay Thakre in 2021 continue to haunt Nagpurians, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness.
