Ludhiana: The menace of Chinese kite string has not only killed and injured humans, but it has led to injuries and deaths of birds and animals as well. While the hazardous string has long been blamed for serious injuries to humans, veterinarians now warn that birds and even animals are increasingly falling victim to it, often with fatal consequences.At Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (Gadvasu), a steady stream of injured birds is being brought in by the concerned citizens. According to university doctors, at least 3-4 birds are being admitted every week with injuries directly linked to kite string. These include sparrows, pigeons, eagles, falcons and other birds, highlighting the widespread impact of the problem across species.
Professor Navdeep Singh, a senior veterinary surgeon at Gadvasu, said most cases involved birds whose wings had been severely cut or fractured after getting entangled in the sharp, glass-coated string. “In many cases, the kite string slices directly into the wings, causing deep cuts. In others, birds get trapped in strings hanging from trees or electric poles and suffer fractures while struggling to free themselves,” he explained. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. In fracture cases, specialised pins are inserted, while in others, proper bandaging and supportive care are provided. “With timely treatment, many birds can recover and regain their ability to fly within 10 days to two weeks,” Prof Singh said. He added that most of the birds brought in so far had suffered wing injuries, which, if untreated, could permanently disable them. The danger is not limited to birds alone. The veterinary doctors have also handled complex cases involving dogs that accidentally ingest Chinese kite string. Once swallowed, the sharp string can get lodged inside the body, leading to severe internal injuries and cut their intestines. “Such cases require complicated surgical procedures. If the string is not removed in time, it can prove fatal,” he said.A recent incident at the district administrative complex further underlined the seriousness of the issue. A pigeon was found badly trapped in the Chinese kite string entangled around a tree. Staff members climbed the tree, carefully freed the bird and provided first aid, preventing, what could have been, another fatality. The veterinarians have urged the public to act responsibly when they come across injured birds. Dr Navdeep Singh advised that any bird found injured by kite string should be immediately taken to the nearest veterinary doctor for proper treatment. “In some cases, we provide medicines, including vitamin supplements like Vitamin B12, along with bandaging. However, treatment varies from case to case, depending on the injury and the species,” he said.He also cautioned people to approach the trapped birds calmly and slowly. “If a bird panics, it may flap its wings violently and worsen its injuries. A gentle, non-threatening approach helps prevent further harm,” he added. Dr Singh said such cases had been reported for the past few years as well. “Not only humans, but birds and animals are becoming victims of Chinese kite string. There should be a complete boycott of this deadly string,” he said, urging people to report its sale or use to the administration and the police. People must avoid the Chinese string as it is causing immense damage to humans and wildlife, just for the sake of selfish fun, and frivolity, the varsity officials said.
