Delhi Discoms Warn Against Flying Kites Near Power Lines Ahead of Aug 15
Power discoms BSES and Tata Power-DDL have issued urgent advisories warning residents against flying kites near overhead power lines in Delhi ahead of Independence Day, while police have banned aerial objects in central Delhi.
The discoms advised people to fly kites strictly in open areas and to use only cotton or other natural-fibre thread. They warned against using metal-coated or glass-coated manjha, noting that metal-coated thread is electrically conductive and can cause the tripping of power circuits if it comes into contact with overhead lines.
Delhi experiences intense kite-flying activity around August 15 each year. Power utilities highlighted that disrupting the electricity supply and damaging electrical equipment are offences punishable under the law.
Residents have also been warned not to attempt to retrieve kites or manjha that become entangled in power lines. Discoms urged parents to counsel children against flying kites near electrical installations and to prevent them from entering restricted areas to recover trapped kites.
To increase reach, the power companies have stepped up awareness campaigns across social media platforms, schools, resident welfare associations, and community groups.
In tandem with the discom warnings, Delhi Police issued an order prohibiting kite flying and aerial objects in central Delhi. Issued on Tuesday by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Rohit Rajbir Singh, the order bans kite flying at or around venues hosting Independence Day programmes and public gatherings in central Delhi until August 16. Police stated that anyone violating the restrictions will face legal action.
