The series of accidents linked to nylon manja in Pune has continued unabated, even weeks after Makar Sankranti. Another disturbing case from the Swargate area has once again highlighted the serious threat posed by the banned kite string. Despite repeated warnings and past incidents, nylon manja remains a hazard on busy roads and flyovers, endangering commuters. The latest mishap has intensified public anger, with residents questioning the effectiveness of enforcement measures. Citizens say the persistence of such incidents shows that official action has failed to curb the illegal circulation and use of the sharp synthetic thread across the city.
In the recent incident, a young motorcyclist sustained critical injuries after becoming entangled in nylon manja while riding over a flyover. The rider, Sanket Bothra, a 30-year-old resident of Dhankwadi, was travelling on the Deshbhakt Late Keshavrao Jedhe Flyover around 6 pm when the string suddenly wrapped around his neck and right hand. As he tried to free himself, the same string caught onto another fast-moving vehicle nearby, sharply tightening around his hand and causing severe damage within seconds.
The tension created by the snagged string resulted in a deep and dangerous cut to Bothra’s right thumb. More than half of his thumb was severed, and the nerves in his fingers were badly damaged. He was immediately taken to hospital, where doctors carried out emergency surgery to save his hand. Medical officials have since confirmed that his condition is stable, though the injuries are serious and may require prolonged treatment. The incident has once again underlined how quickly nylon manja can turn routine travel into a life-threatening situation.
Residents and activists allege that nylon manja continues to be sold openly across Pune despite a clear ban. They point out that only days earlier, a young woman suffered serious injuries in the Bharati Vidyapeeth area due to the same hazard. Social activist Abhijit Tembekar criticised the authorities, warning that a recreational activity is becoming deadly. Nylon or Chinese manja is known to be extremely sharp and lethal to humans, animals, and birds. Although banned by the National Green Tribunal, its unchecked use is causing accidents to rise steadily.