Why Delhi Metro Wants You To Stop Flying Kites Near Elevated Tracks Ahead of Independence Day
Ahead of Independence Day, the DMRC has issued a safety advisory urging the public to avoid flying kites near elevated metro lines. The DMRC warned that metallic or glass-coated strings risk entangling in 25,000-volt wires, causing lethal electrocution hazards and major train delays. Specialised ground teams are now monitoring vulnerable corridors for debris.
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Ahead of Independence Day celebrations on August 15, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has issued a strict safety advisory urging residents across Delhi-NCR to refrain from flying kites near elevated metro corridors. The warning highlights severe risks, including potential electrical hazards and major disruptions to commuter train services.
Kite flying surges traditionally across the National Capital Region in the days leading up to August 15. However, authorities have emphasised that the proximity of these activities to high-voltage transit infrastructure poses significant dangers to public safety. Heading to the Red Fort for 80th Independence Day? Here's Your Guide to Free Metro Rides and Other Facilities.
Delhi Metro Issues Kite-Flying Advisory Ahead of Independence Day
METRO ADVISORY ON KITE FLYING NEAR ELEVATED METRO LINES
Flying kites is a popular tradition in Delhi-NCR, especially around Independence Day. Delhi Metro which presently operates a network of 416 KM in Delhi-NCR is primarily elevated with 25,000 Volts, voltage live Over Head…
— Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) August 12, 2026
High-Voltage Hazards and Operational Risks
The Delhi Metro operates across a vast network spanning roughly 416 kilometres, a significant portion of which consists of elevated tracks. To power daily passenger operations, these tracks feature Overhead Equipment (OHE) carrying 25,000 volts of live electricity. According to the DMRC, kite strings - especially those coated with metallic substances or glass powder (manjha) - can easily become entangled in these high-voltage lines or wrap around the train's pantograph.
"As the kite flying gathers pace around 15th August, there is a very likelihood of kite strings getting entangled in the OHE wires or getting stuck in the pantograph (equipment which draws power from OHE) of a moving train if the kites are flown in the vicinity of elevated Metro lines," the DMRC said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Direct or indirect contact with the 25,000-volt system poses a severe threat of electrocution, while string entanglements can trigger electrical tripping and halt train movement.
The DMRC further appealed and sought cooperation from the general public for refraining from flying kites in the vicinity of elevated Metro lines passing through residential areas for their own safety. "To ensure the safety of all Metro passengers and uninterrupted Metro services, DMRC also advises the public to enjoy kite flying in open spaces away from Metro lines," the post read.
Preventative Measures and Ground Monitoring
To mitigate risks during the festive period, the transit authority has appealed to residents living near elevated corridors to steer clear of rooftops, balconies, and open areas adjacent to the tracks when flying kites. Officials recommend utilising open grounds and parks located well away from metro infrastructure. Delhi Metro Viral Video: Women Catch Man Secretly Filming Them, Confront Him.
In addition to public appeals, the DMRC has mobilised dedicated ground teams stationed near vulnerable and kite-prone metro stations. These teams are tasked with rapidly clearing any stray strings or debris found near the tracks. Train operators and station personnel have also been placed on heightened alert to monitor the corridors and ensure uninterrupted passenger service.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 13, 2026 08:04 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
