The Jaipur Metro Railway Corporation has issued an urgent public safety appeal this Monday. They are asking all residents to completely avoid flying kites anywhere near the metro rail tracks.
A Deadly Risk from Above
In an official press release, JMRC authorities explained the severe danger. The metro line operates using extremely high-voltage overhead power cables. These lines carry a continuous flow of electricity at 25,000 volts, twenty-four hours a day.
The power lines are positioned roughly 30 meters above ground level along the entire metro route. This height puts them directly in the path of kites soaring in the sky during festivals like Makar Sankranti.
Why a Simple Kite String Becomes Lethal
The corporation's warning is stark and clear. If the string from a kite makes contact with these live power lines, the consequences are catastrophic.
The electric current can travel instantly down the wet or conductive string. It reaches the person holding the reel on the ground, delivering a massive, potentially fatal shock. JMRC stressed this is not just a minor hazard but a life-threatening situation.
More Than Just a Safety Hazard
Officials also highlighted operational problems caused by kites. Entangled kites and strings can snag on equipment and disrupt metro train services. This has led to delays and technical issues in previous years, causing inconvenience to thousands of daily commuters.
The timing of this appeal is crucial, coinciding with the upcoming Makar Sankranti festival, a traditional time for kite flying across North India.
A Festive Greeting with a Serious Plea
Vaibhav Galaria, the Chairman and Managing Director of JMRC, extended his festive wishes to the city's citizens. "I would like to extend Makar Sankranti greetings to all," he stated.
He followed this with a heartfelt request: "Our appeal to the citizens of Jaipur is to refrain from flying kites near the metro tracks." The message blends seasonal goodwill with a critical call for public safety and smooth urban transit.
The corporation hopes residents will celebrate responsibly by choosing open grounds and parks far away from the metro corridor, ensuring a safe and joyful festival for everyone.
