Decisive action required to ban kite-flying
islamabad — Despite a long drawn debate in the media and indecisive action against the use of metal-coated string (manja) for kite flying, the authorities concerned appear to be clueless and seemed to have accepted it as a necessary evil.
In earlier days the string used to be made of cotton, nylon, silk with the sole purpose of cutting through others’ kite strings. However, nowadays strings are coated with powered metal or glass which make them a deadly weapon.
In many instances these metalcoated strings caused death by cutting through the throats of a bystander. In addition, flying kites having metal-coated manja near electrical installations can be life threatening as it is a good conductor of electricity. > Many deaths are caused by kite strings laced with metal shards, or are treated with abrasive chemicals. > Many youngsters died in accidents while chasing the kites on roads.
Senator Taj Haider of Pakistan People’s Party has called on legislators, educationists and civil society to launch a campaign against the threats posed by such activity, terming it “the only way forward to deal with the problem”.
In an interview, he however said it was the responsibility of the state to protect public lives by putting a > Kites using metal-coated strings also cause blackouts when they become entwined with power lines. > A senior lawyer calls for a complete ban on kite flying to stop deaths . complete ban on such a deathdealing activity.
A senior lawyer, Maqsood Buttar, said that homicide chapter of Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) must be used against the manufacturers of kite and fatal string. “There was no alternative to a human life and anti-kite flying laws should be implemented in letter and spirit.”
Mian Tariq Mehmood, MNA, however, had his own view regarding Basant and the kite flying activity associated with the festival. He said banning a recreational activity is not a solution to the issue. “The incidents of deaths and injuries can be curtailed by taking certain preemptive measures.
“Some spots far away from populous areas can be designated for this activity, but this festivity must be allowed as it is a source of enjoyment for people,” he added.
“During Basant a controversial kite-flying activity has been observed across the country. The deadly chemical-coated string, aerial firing and accidents of youngsters chasing the kites on roads, has made it a murderous and controversial activity,” he deplored. — APP
A harmless, fun activity turned deadly