New Delhi: Delhi’s power discoms have warned residents against flying kites near overhead power lines and using metal-coated or glass-coated manjha ahead of Independence Day. BSES and Tata Power-DDL have advised people to fly kites only in open areas and use cotton or other natural-fibre thread. Residents have also been warned not to attempt to retrieve kites or manjha entangled in power lines.Delhi witnesses intense kite-flying activity around Aug 15 with many using metal-coated manjha, which is electrically conductive and can come into contact with overhead lines, causing tripping of power circuits. Disrupting power supply and damaging electrical equipment are punishable under law.The discoms have stepped up awareness campaigns through social media, schools, resident welfare associations and community groups. They have also urged parents to counsel children against flying kites near electrical installations and entering restricted areas to retrieve them.Kite flying, aerial objects banned near I-Day venues in central DelhiMeanwhile, Delhi Police has issued an order banning kite flying and the use of aerial objects at or around venues hosting Independence Day programmes and public gatherings in central Delhi till Aug 16. Any person found violating the restrictions will face legal action. The order was issued by DCP (Central) Rohit Rajbir Singh Tuesday.Police said the measure had been taken to strengthen security arrangements and ensure the safety of the public, dignitaries and participants attending Independence Day events. The order also prohibits activities that could cause obstruction, danger, annoyance, inconvenience or disturbance to public peace and tranquillity during the celebrations. All individuals, establishments, institutions and event organisers have been directed to strictly comply with the security directions.
