Amritsar: In a move aimed at curbing accidents and protecting wildlife, the Amritsar district administration has announced a complete ban on the use and storage of Chinese kite strings, including those made of nylon, plastic, or any other synthetic material.
The order, issued by Additional District Magistrate Rohit Gupta under Section 163 of the Indian Civil Defence Code, 2023, prohibits the manufacture, sale, purchase, storage, supply, and transportation of non-biodegradable or sharp kite strings containing glass, metal, or other hazardous materials.
Authorities clarified that kite flying will only be permitted using traditional cotton thread, which must be free from any glass, metal, adhesive, or reinforcing substances.
To promote safety awareness, Sub-Divisional Magistrates and District Education Officers (Elementary and Secondary) have been directed to conduct educational campaigns targeting children and youth. The goal is to inform young people about the dangers posed by synthetic kite strings to both humans and birds.
Every year, synthetic kite strings lead to serious injuries, bird deaths, and even road accidents, according to the district administration. Exposed glass-coated or metallic threads have been responsible for fatal and severe injuries, particularly during festivals involving kite flying.
The ban will remain in effect until February 9, 2026, and violators will face strict legal action. Authorities have urged residents to comply with the rules to ensure public safety and protect wildlife.
