Pune: Woman Injured by Chinese Manja on Bopkhel–Khadki Bridge
Bopkhel, 31st December 2025: A woman suffered neck injuries on Tuesday evening after being hit by banned synthetic kite string, commonly known as Chinese manja, while travelling across the Bopkhel–Khadki Bridge in Pune.
According to eyewitnesses, the nearly invisible manja became entangled around the woman’s neck as she was crossing the bridge, causing sudden injury and forcing her to stop immediately. Commuters at the spot rushed to help her and provided first aid before ensuring she was moved away from the traffic lane to prevent further risk.
After the incident, alert citizens inspected the bridge and the adjoining road stretch and removed several tangled strands of synthetic kite string found on the road surface and along the sides of the bridge. Their prompt action helped reduce the possibility of similar accidents involving motorists and pedestrians.
Chinese manja is banned in Maharashtra due to its sharp, glass-coated texture and non-biodegradable nature. The synthetic string has been responsible for several serious injuries and fatalities in urban areas, especially affecting two-wheeler riders and pedestrians during the kite-flying season.
The incident comes ahead of the New Year and the approaching Sankranti festival, a period when kite flying traditionally increases across Pune. Authorities have repeatedly warned against the sale, use, and possession of synthetic kite strings, citing serious public safety concerns and legal consequences for violators.
Police and civic officials have urged citizens to report illegal sale or use of Chinese manja and to exercise caution while commuting, particularly on flyovers and bridges where loose strings pose a high risk.
