Chinese manjha sale continues despite ban

Despite a ban and repeated warnings from city police, Chinese manjha (synthetic kite-flying thread) continues to be sold openly in several parts of Visakhapatnam ahead of Sankranti. The illegal sale has raised fresh concerns over public safety and weak enforcement.

Sources said shops and temporary kiosks in MVP Colony, Akkayyapalem, One Town, Allipuram, Kancharapalem, and Old Gajuwaka are openly selling the banned thread. Vendors are selling manjha rolls for Rs 80 to Rs 300, depending on thickness and quality.

A shopkeeper in Akkayyapalem said buyers are specifically asking for Chinese manjha. “People are asking only for Chinese manjha. They don’t want the cotton thread,” he said, requesting anonymity.

Some sellers claimed they were clearing old stock. Others admitted they were bringing supplies from outside Andhra Pradesh. “We are bringing it from Telangana. Demand is very high during Sankranti,” another vendor said.

Kite-flying is a major Sankranti tradition in Visakhapatnam. Large crowds gather at popular stretches, such as Beach Road, during Bhogi, Sankranti, and Kanuma.

However, the sharp synthetic thread has caused serious accidents in the past. The thread often snaps or stretches across roads, putting motorists at risk. Several victims, including children, have suffered deep cuts and severe injuries in previous years.

Commissioner of Police Shankabratha Bagchi warned that Chinese manjha poses a major threat to both public safety and the environment.

“Chinese manjha is extremely dangerous. It is not only a threat to humans, but also to birds. Many birds get trapped and die,” he said. Bagchi also cautioned that the thread can trigger major mishaps if it comes into contact with power lines. “If the manjha touches electric lines, it can cause shocks and even fires. In some cases, it may lead to loss of life,” he added.

To curb illegal sales, the City Task Force (CTF), along with city police teams, carried out special raids across Visakhapatnam on Tuesday (January 13). Officials seized around 650 rolls of Chinese manjha during the drive. Police recovered large quantities from the limits of II Town, IV Town, Kancharapalem, Airport, MVP, and Pendurthi police stations, among other areas. “Strict action will be taken against those selling banned manjha,” a police official said.