NGT interim ban on synthetic kite flying string welcomed

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, December 15

The interim ban on procurement and use of glass powder-coated, nylon and synthetic strings for flying kites by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) is being welcomed by animal activists and traditional thread makers.

Many lives were lost and countless were injured after coming into contact with acrylic/synthetic string, also known as dragon string, while commuting on roads.

The number of roadside units, which processed kite-flying thread, dwindled in the past few years after advent of the nylon kite-flying string in the market.

Locally known as ‘dor da adda’, these indigenous and makeshift thread making units were common sight on roads in the city.

Jeeta, a traditional kite flying thread maker, said if such a rule was made permanent then it would revive the morbid trade. He said the seasonal business used to offer extra source of earning to daily wagers.

However, after arrival of the nylon thread the entire charm of kite flying was stolen, he added.

He said, “What is the fun of a game when it does not end in one’s victory? It then motivates a loser to improve his kite flying, which demands skilled hands, understanding of movement of air, besides good combination of eyes and hands.”

In order to face the stiff competition posed by nylon-mixed thread, they used to coat a mixture of crushed glass and arrow root over string to make it sharp and strong, he added. The crushed glass on the thread helped in cutting kites of other fliers, he added. He said, “Now, as the synthetic string has been banned we will abide by the court orders.”

Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) honorary inspector Ashok Joshi said many birds and animals became victims of the nylon string. He said many birds perished, some lost their limbs and others suffered pain after coming in contact with the synthetic string. He welcomed ban on the nylon string.