Makar Sankranti 2025: Kite Strings Injure Over 700 Birds Across Mumbai

This year's Makar Sankranti celebrations has highlighted a number of wildlife and human injuries in Mumbai. Over 700 birds were harmed, including kites, owls, and pigeons. The injuries ranged from minor cuts to severe wounds. Majority of the wounded birds were found in the western suburbs like Goregaon, Malad, Kandivli, Borivli, and Dahisar.  

Human injuries were fewer in comparison. Four cases were reported in city hospitals. One was treated at Nair hospital whereas other three were recorded at Cooper Hospital. All patients were discharged after treatment.  

- Amir Khan, a Ghatkopar resident, received treatment at Nair Hospital for cuts on his face. After first aid, he was discharged in stable condition. 

- Sebastian Fernandes had a 4 cm hand injury that required cleaning, sutures, and injections. 

- Deepak Bhaskar Mahula had a 3 cm cut on his face that was treated and bandaged. 

- Jigar Patel sustained a 4 cm hand injury that needed sutures, injections, and X-rays. 

Animal rights groups set up about 25 bird rescue camps across Mumbai and nearby suburbs on January 14 and 15. A total of 682 injured birds were rescued from these camps. Over 500 injuries were reported in the western suburbs.  

Two pigeons were taken to the Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals in Parel. One lost a leg, and the other lost a wing. Most injured birds received care from rescue teams. These teams, sent by animal welfare organizations, operated in areas like Dadar Kabutar Khana and Grant Road.

Police reported 19 cases of illegal nylon manja usage between January 10 and 13. They arrested or served notices to 19 suspects. Materials worth INR 35,350 were confiscated. By January 15, 23 arrests had been made, and the value of seized materials rose to INR 88,325.

Interestingly, this year recorded fewer human injuries in Mumbai compared to previous years. Despite warnings, people still use plastic strings. These strings are a major threat to wildlife. 

Similar incidents occurred across Maharashtra in cities like Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur. In Akola, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Nandurbar, individuals were also injured by kite strings.