With Independence Day 2026 approaching, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has released a critical safety advisory for residents living near its elevated corridors in Delhi-NCR. The DMRC strongly cautions against flying kites close to Metro lines, particularly around August 15, to prevent severe accidents and operational disruptions.
Understanding the Danger of Kite Flying Near Metro Tracks
The Delhi Metro network spans approximately 416 km across Delhi-NCR, with a significant portion running on elevated tracks. These tracks are powered by Overhead Equipment (OHE) carrying a dangerous 25,000 volts of electricity. Kite strings, especially those made with metallic manjha, can easily get entangled in these high-voltage wires or the pantograph—the device on top of a Metro train that draws electricity.
Direct or indirect contact with this high-voltage equipment is extremely hazardous and can be fatal. Beyond the immediate risk to individuals, a kite string caught in the OHE or pantograph can lead to electrical tripping, equipment damage, and significant disruptions to Metro services, impacting thousands of commuters.
The Threat of Metallic Manjha
The DMRC has specifically highlighted the heightened danger posed by metallic manjha. These strings, often used for their cutting properties, are excellent conductors of electricity, dramatically increasing the risk of electrocution for anyone handling them if they come into contact with live wires.
DMRC's Advisory: What Residents Should Do
- Fly in Open Spaces: Residents are urged to enjoy kite flying only in open areas located well away from elevated Metro lines.
- Avoid Proximity: If your neighborhood features an elevated Metro corridor, refrain from flying kites from rooftops, balconies, or any open spaces close to the tracks.
- Educate Children: Parents are advised to inform children about the serious risks involved, especially during the period leading up to and around Independence Day, when kite-flying activity intensifies.
DMRC Teams on Alert
To mitigate potential hazards, the DMRC has implemented a dedicated mechanism to manage kite-string-related disruptions during the peak kite-flying season. Specialized teams will be deployed near stations and areas known for frequent kite-flying incidents. These teams are tasked with promptly removing any spotted kite strings. Additionally, train operators and station staff have been instructed to maintain a heightened state of vigilance. The primary goal is to prevent kite strings from becoming a safety hazard or causing inconvenience to the thousands of daily Metro passengers.