Rescuers say most injuries caused by banned Chinese manja, which is still widely available
RAWW president Pawan Sharma with the rescued kite
With Makar Sankranti being celebrated across the city, Mumbai-based NGOs engaged in wildlife rescue and conservation reported rescuing around 50 birds injured by kite strings (manja) over the past four days. Activists also alleged that despite a ban imposed by courts and the National Green Tribunal (NGT), Chinese and nylon manja continue to be sold in the city.
In Mumbai and Thane, several NGOs working towards wildlife conservation reported a surge in bird injuries linked to kite-flying. Representatives of NGOs RAWW (Resqink Association For Wildlife Welfare), SARRP (Spreading Awareness on Reptiles and Rehabilitation Programme)-India and WWA (Wildlife Welfare Association) told mid-day that over the past four to five days, they have rescued around 50 birds of various species injured by manja. The injured birds included species such as black-shouldered kites, pigeons, crows, parakeets, and spotted owlets.
A kite dangling from a tree after getting entangled in manja. PICS COURTESY/RAWW
The NGOs fear that the number of bird injuries may rise further in the coming days, as kite-flying activities are expected to continue for the next few weeks. They also stressed that government departments should conduct surprise inspections and initiate strict action against those found selling banned items such as nylon manja.
What experts say
RAWW president Pawan Sharma told mid-day that Chinese/glass-coated/nylon manjas are still being sold and purchased irrespective of a ban on them by the NGT since 2017 due to their life-threatening nature, with deaths of both people and animals (especially birds at large), reported over the years.
RAWW rescuers work to free the bird
“The Bombay High Court had also given directions in December 2025, and on January 12, 2026 — days before the festival — to the authorities to ensure that nylon manjas are not being used, and that anyone found selling, buying, or using them should be heavily fined, including the parents of children who are found using it so as to make them accountable and responsible. Since January 10, when the Riwild-RAWW campaign started, the two NGOs have rescued and treated over 21 birds with severe injuries due to being entangled in manjas, especially the banned ones,” said Sharma.
‘Fatal for birds’
Dr Rina Dev, avian and exotic bird specialist, and president of RiWild Sanctuary & Charitable Trust, said, “The sharp manjas have proven to be fatal for many birds, which succumbed due to the nature and impact of the injuries. Many birds have lost their wings, flight feathers, and also limbs, and even after complex life-saving surgeries, some will never be able to fly again, leading to a lifetime of care in captivity.”
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
