NGT imposes complete ban on nylon and synthetic manja

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on 11 July 2017 banned the use of 'Chinese' kite strings, made of nylon or any synthetic material, which is non-biodegradable, with immediate effect.

The NGT directed all state governments to prohibit the "manufacture, sale, storage, purchase and use" of synthetic manja or nylon threads and all other synthetic strings used for flying kites with immediate effect.

The judgement of Tribunal came on a plea filed by animal rights body People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and others.

The green panel went on to state that “Although kite flying with 'manja' has been a sport and recreational activity in the country since time immemorial, but the strings endanger the lives of birds, animals and human beings and damage the environment”.

The ill-effects of Chinese manja had not only resulted in injuries to birds, animals and human beings, but it also led to a many fatal accidents.

The petition filed by PETA and others had contended that manja poses a grave threat to humans and animals as a number of deaths are caused by it every year. It has also alleged that sometimes these strings coated with sharp metals, traps and kill migratory birds. It also claimed that minor children were engaged by the cottage industry for the manufacture of nylon threads, which caused respiratory problems as they inhaled harmful substances.

About National Green Tribunal

• The National Green Tribunal was established in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act 2010.

• It was established for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources.

• It is a specialized body equipped with the necessary expertise to handle environmental disputes involving multi-disciplinary issues.

• The Tribunal is not be bound by the procedure laid down under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, but is guided by principles of natural justice.