Why Should People Avoid Flying Kites Near Railway Traction Lines?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Avoid kite flying near railway traction lines to prevent electrocution risks.
- Chinese manja can be hazardous due to its conductive properties.
- Police are increasing efforts to combat the sale of banned kite threads.
- Public cooperation is essential for ensuring safety during festivals.
- Report any incidents or dangerous practices to authorities.
Hyderabad, Dec 30 (NationPress) South Central Railway has urged the public to refrain from flying kites near railway traction lines during the forthcoming Sankranti festival.
The South Central Railway (SCR) has expressed grave concern over the rising number of electrocution incidents linked to kite flying in areas surrounding railway properties, including yards, tracks, and adjacent local neighborhoods.
Last year during the Sankranti festival, numerous cases were documented across Indian Railways’ various zones, where individuals faced serious electric shocks or even fatal injuries after coming into contact with kite threads entangled in 25 kV Overhead Electric Traction (OHE) lines.
“The use of Chinese-imported kite threads, often metallic or chemically treated, makes them conductors of electricity. When these threads touch live overhead traction equipment, they create a significant danger not only to human life but also to essential railway electrical systems, which might disrupt services and pose safety risks for passengers and Railway staff,” the SCR stated.
The SCR earnestly requests the public to cooperate fully by avoiding kite flying near railway tracks, stations, yards, and other railway facilities.
Overhead traction lines carry high-voltage electricity, and even indirect contact through kite threads can lead to deadly accidents. The South Central Railway encourages everyone to celebrate festivals responsibly to ensure the safety of lives and the smooth operation of train services.
In a related incident, a food delivery worker suffered severe injuries after getting caught in Chinese manja in Hyderabad's Old City.
The event occurred in the Shamsheergunj locality on Monday. Jameel, a resident of Nawab Sahab Kunta, was riding towards Shahalibanda when the banned Chinese manja reportedly fell and wrapped around his neck, inflicting a deep cut. He was taken to a private hospital for treatment, where he received 22 stitches for his injury.
In response to this incident, Khairatabad MLA Danam Nagender announced a reward of Rs. 5,000 for any information leading to the arrest of those selling the banned Chinese manja.
The Hyderabad police have ramped up efforts against the sale and use of this prohibited string.