Hyderabad, Jan. 12 -- Sankranthi is around the corner, but for many Hyderabadis, safety concerns have dampened festivities, as kites smeared with Chinese manja soar high, posing a threat to all forms of life.

Though the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned it in 2017 under the Environment (Protection) Act, the act remains largely on paper as this dangerous nylon thread continues to be used extensively, fatally injuring birds, animals and humans.

This year, the Hyderabad City Police seized bobbins worth Rs 1.54 crore and have stepped up enforcement to clamp down sales, but in certain grey markets, it is being sold for Rs 2,500 per bobbin.

The traditional manja is prepared using a mixture of gum, glass and rice in Dhoolpet, Mangalhat and...