Banned Chinese Manjha Wreaks Havoc in Ludhiana: 250+ Birds Dead, Hundreds Injured
The festive season of kite flying in Ludhiana has turned into a nightmare for both humans and avian life, as the banned Chinese manjha (kite string) continues to cause widespread devastation. According to city-based bird rescuers, this dangerous string has not only resulted in two human fatalities and numerous injuries but has also claimed the lives of approximately 250 birds while leaving hundreds more wounded.
Alarming Statistics from Bird Shelters
The grim figures come from just two bird shelters within Ludhiana city, with incidents reported since the Lohri festival when kite flying activities intensified. Ramesh Kumar, an attendant at a cowshed under Division No. 3 police station, revealed that their shelter alone has received about 200 injured birds since Lohri. "People from areas like Haibowal, Dugri, and other parts of the city bring us injured birds regularly," he stated.
The affected birds include pigeons, house sparrows, parrots, and crows. After receiving necessary treatment, many are released back into the wild. However, the shelter, which has infrastructure for 500 birds, currently houses 400-450 birds, including those injured by kite strings and others sick from various causes. "Many birds suffer deep cuts from the string and die before reaching us," Ramesh added, highlighting the unseen toll.
Rescue Efforts and Growing Concerns
The Bhagwan Mahavir Jeev Sewa Trust, another organization dedicated to bird welfare, also reports a surge in string-related injuries. Trust member Rakesh Jain noted that in the last 3-4 days, they received around 50 birds with such injuries, compared to just one or two on routine days. "We have an expert who treats these birds, and we provide daily feed of 150 kg to approximately 3,000 birds in our care," Jain explained.
Expressing anger over the suffering caused by Chinese manjha, trust members called for the strictest action against sellers, including denying bail to those caught. They emphasized that proper police intervention could finally halt the sale of this banned string.
Hidden Toll and Human Impact
Vipan Bhatia, a known bird rescuer in Ludhiana, suggested the actual number of affected birds might be much higher. "It's difficult to keep data, but the number could reach 1,000 in the district, as many injured birds never reach rescuers," he said. Bhatia estimated that at least 25-30 birds have died, with many more left handicapped due to severe injuries.
The human cost is equally tragic, with two deaths reported recently, including a student. Salman Khan, a 23-year-old victim from Mullanpur who suffered neck injuries on Raikot Road bridge on December 30, echoed the concerns. "Though banned, Chinese string is still being sold. It must be stopped to prevent further suffering to humans, animals, and birds," he urged.
As Ludhiana grapples with this ongoing menace, bird rescuers and victims alike are pleading for stringent enforcement of bans and greater public awareness to protect both human and avian lives from the deadly grip of Chinese manjha.
