Chandigarh, January 14, 2025 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): The festival of Makar Sankranti is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in northern India. Many people prepare to fly kites on this day. Some may have already purchased kites and manjha, while others will buy them today. People may have also selected locations to fly kites to compete with others. However, kite enthusiasts should remember one important thing, as failing to do so could spoil the Makar Sankranti mood. This means there is a risk of six months in prison or a fine of up to 1,000 rupees. This is related to the railway.
In many parts of the country, people fly kites during the festival. Every year, due to flying kites near railway tracks, many people fall victim to accidents. Additionally, the operation of trains is disrupted in areas where electric trains are running. According to Deepak Kumar Sinha, DRM of Jhansi Division, the electric wires running over railway tracks carry 25,000 volts. If these wires come into contact with kite strings, a severe electric shock can occur.
Especially metal wires can cause electric shocks, which can be fatal. Moreover, flying kites near railway tracks while high-speed trains pass by can result in accidents. Due to this, the railway administration has appealed to the public to stay away from railway tracks and platforms while flying kites.
Under the Railway Act, penalties may apply: According to Section 147 of the Railway Act 1989, crossing railway tracks at unauthorized locations is a punishable offense, which can lead to a fine of up to 1,000 rupees, six months of imprisonment, or both penalties. If you fly kites near railway tracks and this section is enforced, you may end up in jail.
Summary: Flying kites during Makar Sankranti, if done dangerously, can result in six months of imprisonment due to violations of safety laws.