Puri police cracks down on sale of Chinese manja thread ahead of Makar Sankranti

Ahead of Makar Sankranti, the Puri Police has launched a special enforcement drive across the city to curb the sale and use of manja, the sharp, glass-coated kite string, that poses serious risks to public safety. 

Kite-flying is a popular tradition during the festival in Odisha, but manja has been linked to accidents and injuries, especially in crowded areas. The drive comes as the holy city prepares to host a massive influx of devotees and tourists during the festive period.

Every day, lakhs of people move through Bada Danda and other prominent areas of Puri. Considering the heavy footfall at the Jagannath Dham, senior police officials have intensified security measures. The special drive aims to prevent accidents caused by manja-coated kite thread and ensure a safe environment for visitors and residents alike.

During the operation, the Puri police inspected several kite shops and commercial establishments across the city. A total of 70 bundles of manja thread were seized, and shopkeepers or individuals found selling them illegally were issued strict warnings. Authorities warned that repeat offenders would face stringent legal action.

Puri Police have reiterated that the sale and use of manja is both dangerous and punishable under law. They have appealed to citizens and tourists to avoid flying kites with manja, particularly in crowded areas like Bada Danda.

The enforcement drive will continue in the coming days to ensure a safe and accident-free Makar Sankranti for all residents, devotees, and visitors to Puri.