This Sankranti, control is key

Today, Makar Sankranti is the day when the sky is dotted with hundreds of kites. While like all festivals this is a joyous occasion, it would be wise to throw your kite but not caution to the wind

Today, Makar Sankranti is the day when the sky is dotted with hundreds of kites. While like all festivals this is a joyous occasion, it would be wise to throw your kite but not caution to the wind.

Like so many revellers at different festivals realise, getting caught up in the moment sometimes results in tragic consequences. Also, since so many of these kites are flown from open building terraces, there have been casualties in the past. Kite flyers have leaned in too far over low terrace walls in their preoccupation and eagerness to slice the other flyer’s manja (kite string) and triumph over a friend. This is fraught with danger and one can never be too careful when near the walls of the terrace. Children too, need to be supervised when they fly kites.

Also, if one’s kite gets caught in a power line, it is important to know that you must not touch the power line or the kite. Electricity can travel down that line. It is better to abandon the kite altogether. The kite flyer should also be aware that the kite may be light but the burden of responsibility is indeed heavy. Be aware of your surroundings and other people near you. This is especially true in Mumbai, where there is hardly any open space.

If you are flying a kite near a road be especially alert for passing pedestrians and people on two-wheelers. It is wiser altogether not to fly the kite near or over people. Many times the string is invisible or difficult to spot for other people. We have not even come to the large number of birds who suffer injuries during the kite flying fest. The key to a safe and happy Sankranti then is control. Control over your excitement and the kite can lead to what airlines like to state, a very pleasant flying experience for everyone.u00a0

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