Hyderabad: Head of Forest Force Vinay Kumar directed officials to intensify enforcement against synthetic manja sales and protect Indian rollers, known as Palapitta, and other wildlife. He issued the instructions during a review meeting with senior officials from various government departments at Aranya Bhavan on Friday.
Vinay Kumar asked officials to initiate steps to cancel the licences of shops caught selling the prohibited kite strings. He stressed the need for stronger surveillance and coordinated action to curb the illegal trade.
The forest chief noted that suppliers were bringing synthetic manja from other States, particularly Rajasthan and Gujarat. Therefore, he directed officials to increase surveillance on supplies originating from these two States.
Meanwhile, Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) officials must instruct shop owners not to sell synthetic manja. Vinay Kumar also called for stringent action against shops that violate the ban.
The police were directed to strengthen surveillance against the online sale of Chinese manja. Officials must identify listings of synthetic manja on e-commerce websites and coordinate with the concerned organisations to stop such sales.
Synthetic manja sales targeted through public awareness
Vinay Kumar called for awareness campaigns to inform the public about the prohibition on synthetic manja. He instructed officials to display posters at bus stations, railway stations, markets and other crowded public places.
In addition, he asked the School Education Department to sensitise students and their parents about the dangers Chinese manja poses to people and birds. The initiative aims to improve awareness of the risks associated with the prohibited kite strings.
The forest chief also directed officials to involve public transport staff in reporting suspected illegal activities. Bus drivers and conductors should alert the Forest Department helpline if they notice the illegal transportation of synthetic manja.
They must also report the transportation of Indian rollers and other wildlife on buses. These instructions form part of the department’s efforts to strengthen enforcement and protect birds and other wildlife from illegal activities.