Daijiworld Media Network- Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, Jan 16: The vibrant celebrations of Makar Sankranti in Gujarat took a tragic turn as at least 15 people lost their lives and hundreds sustained injuries in kite-flying-related incidents across the state. The mishaps, reported on January 14, were largely attributed to sharp kite strings (manjha) and accidental falls from terraces during kite flying or chasing.

According to reports, six deaths occurred in the Saurashtra-Kutch region, six in central Gujarat, and one each in Ahmedabad, Bharuch, and Aravalli districts. Among the youngest victims was a 10-month-old girl from Gandhidham, who was crushed to death when her father fell through a fragile terrace sheet.

Emergency services reported a sharp surge in incidents, with the EMRI 108 ambulance service attending to 4,948 cases—an increase of 30% compared to normal days. Ahmedabad recorded the highest number of emergencies at 1,050 cases, a 43% rise from the usual average of 734. Hospitals across the state remained busy with a steady stream of injured individuals seeking medical attention.

In Jamnagar, a 14-year-old boy tragically came into contact with an illegal electric fence while retrieving a kite, leading to his death. Police have booked the farm owner responsible for installing the fencing. In Vadodara, three victims aged 21, 23, and 35 succumbed to injuries, while in Rajkot, a 10-year-old lost his life after falling from a terrace. Another fatality in Rajkot was caused by injuries from a kite string.

The shocking incidents have raised concerns over the use of banned manjha and the lack of safety measures during festivities. Authorities are being urged to enforce stricter regulations and create greater awareness to prevent such tragedies in the future.