Nagpur: With the festival of Makar Sankranti approaching, the skies over Nagpur have begun filling with colourful kites. However, celebrating the festival without due attention to electrical safety can prove fatal, the Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has warned. Citing a rise in electrocution-related accidents during kite-flying every year, MSEDCL, along with social organisations, has appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and prioritise safety.

Nylon Manja and Power Lines: A Deadly Combination

MSEDCL officials cautioned that nylon or Chinese manja, commonly used for kite flying, poses a serious threat not only to the environment but also to human life. Such manja is often coated with metallic particles, making it a good conductor of electricity. If it comes into contact with high-tension power lines, the person holding the string can suffer a severe electric shock, which can be fatal.

Avoid Kite Flying Near Electric Poles and Transformers

In urban areas, the dense network of overhead power lines increases the risk of accidents. Kites frequently get entangled in electric wires, and attempts to retrieve them using iron rods, wet bamboo or wooden sticks can lead to short circuits and major mishaps. MSEDCL has also warned people against flying kites near distribution poles (DPs) and transformers, as explosions or sparking in such areas can cause serious injuries.

Risk of Power Outages

When kite strings get stuck on power lines, it often results in tripping, leading to electricity supply disruptions across entire localities. Repair work in such situations also puts the lives of power distribution staff at risk. Citizens have been urged to ensure that their festive enjoyment does not become the cause of inconvenience, darkness or danger to others.

MSEDCL’s Safety Guidelines for a Safe Kite Festival

• Fly kites only in open grounds or safe terraces; avoid areas near power lines, poles and transformers.
• Use only cotton thread (ordinary manja); strictly avoid nylon, plastic or metal-coated manja.
• If a kite gets stuck in electric wires, leave it there; do not attempt to retrieve it using wet objects or wires.
• Parents should closely supervise children and prevent them from running onto roads or under power lines to catch kites.

Social Appeal

“Kite flying is a festival of joy, but safety should never be compromised. Ensure that the manja given to children does not come into contact with electricity. As responsible citizens, no one should attempt to bravely remove kites stuck on electric wires,” MSEDCL appealed.

The advisory was issued by the Deputy Chief Public Relations Officer, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL), Nagpur, urging citizens to celebrate Makar Sankranti responsibly and safely.