Delhi authorities warn of kite flying risks to metro and power lines

Authorities in Delhi have issued safety advisories ahead of Independence Day celebrations, warning residents against the dangers of kite flying near critical infrastructure.

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has urged citizens to avoid flying kites near elevated metro lines. The corporation warned that kite strings can become entangled in 25,000-volt overhead equipment (OHE) or moving train pantographs, potentially causing service disruptions and severe safety hazards. DMRC has deployed specialized teams at sensitive stations to remove entangled strings.

Simultaneously, power distribution companies, including BSES and Tata Power Delhi Distribution Limited (TPDDL), have warned against the use of metal-coated or glass-coated manjha (kite string). These materials act as conductors that can cause electrocution, equipment damage, and widespread power outages. Discoms noted that tripping a single 33/66 kV line can disrupt electricity for over 10,000 residents. Officials emphasized that disrupting power supplies through reckless kite flying is an offense under the Electricity Act and the Delhi Police Act.