NGT directs total ban on 'manja' made of nylon, non-biodegradable material

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Tuesday imposed a complete ban on 'manja' (kite string) made of nylon or any non-biodegradable material, which is used for flying kites.

A bench, headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar, directed all state governments to prohibit the "manufacture, sale, storage, purchase and use" of synthetic manja or nylon threads and all other synthetic threads used for flying kites.

The green tribunal had earlier imposed interim nationwide ban on use of glass-coated 'manja' for flying kites, noting that the sharp string poses a danger to humans, animals and birds.

The tribunal was hearing a plea filed by animal rights body People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) seeking nationwide ban on manja as the thread posed grave threat to humans and animals.

PETA had averred that minor children were engaged by the cottage industry for the manufacture of manja, which caused respiratory problems as they inhaled harmful substances which were extremely detrimental to their health.