Punjab Villages Ban Kite Flying, Police Advise Mufflers Amid Fatal 'China Door' Accidents

Authorities and village councils in Punjab are implementing strict measures following a surge in fatal accidents caused by the dangerous 'China Door' (Chinese kite string). The village of Bhaini Chuhar Singh in Bathinda has completely banned kite flying to prevent further injuries and deaths. This decision comes after recent fatalities and severe injuries, including a teenager in Samrala and Sarabjit Kaur in Akalgarh, due to the deadly string. Simultaneously, Punjab Police have issued an unconventional advisory, urging motorcyclists to wear mufflers for neck protection and avoid flyovers to mitigate risks. While the sale and purchase of 'China Door' are illegal in the state, its continued availability has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the government of failing to enforce the ban. Police have also begun diverting traffic from flyovers in Amritsar and are using social media to encourage riders to adopt the 'muffler strategy' for safety. The police's advice has, however, sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it shifts the responsibility onto citizens instead of effectively curbing the illegal sale of the hazardous string.