Chinese manja injures Hyderabad ASI Nagaraju; spate of Sankranti accidents sparks alarm

Hyderabad: Banned Chinese manja has triggered another serious injury in Hyderabad, this time affecting a serving police officer. ASI Nagaraju, posted at Nallakunta Police Station, sustained a deep neck injury on Monday when manja became entangled around his neck while commuting from his Uppal residence.

Local residents rushed him to Kamineni Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment under medical supervision. The incident highlights the continued threat of illegal manja usage, particularly during Sankranti kite flying.

Chinese manja Hyderabad accidents spark concern amid festival

In recent days, several similar cases have alarmed the public. In just one week, multiple two-wheeler riders — especially IT professionals — suffered cuts from stray manja threads across the city.

Among them, software engineer Surya Teja was injured in Gachibowli, while Sai Vardhan Reddy was hurt near Uppal Metro Station. In another case, a delivery worker in the Old City was hospitalized with neck wounds.

Despite a strict ban, Chinese manja continues to be sold clandestinely in Hyderabad. Police have seized banned manja worth lakhs in multiple raids. Authorities are urging commuters, especially bikers, to remain alert during early mornings and night hours, particularly on flyovers and low-traffic zones. Officers advised wearing jackets or scarves to protect the neck while riding.