Ghaziabad biker dies after banned Chinese manjha slits neck on expressway

A 27-year-old man died after a banned Chinese manjha slit his neck while he was riding a motorcycle on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway in Ghaziabad on Independence Day, once again raising questions over the continued sale and use of the deadly kite string despite restrictions.The victim, Ravi Raj, was travelling towards Delhi-Ghazipur with his friend Naresh when the sharp string became entangled around his neck near UP Gate, according to police.Ravi, a resident of Bahampur in Noida, suffered a deep cut and fell from the motorcycle after the string caught his neck. He was rushed to Max Hospital, where he died during treatment.Ravi worked in online delivery and was originally from Bihar. A video of the incident has surfaced, showing Ravi bleeding heavily after the string cut his neck. His friend can be seen trying to stop the bleeding by tying a cloth around his neck.Warning: The video contains graphic and disturbing visuals. Viewer discretion is advised. Police said they received information about an injured man through Dial 112 at around 2 pm on August 15. Teams from Khoda and Kaushambi police stations reached the Delhi-Meerut Expressway and took Ravi to hospital.After his death, police conducted an inquest and post-mortem examination. Further legal action is underway.The death has renewed concerns over the use of Chinese manjha, particularly around Independence Day when kite flying becomes more common.Chinese manjha has been prohibited in Delhi since January 10, 2017. Ahead of Independence Day in 2023, the Delhi government reiterated the ban on its production, storage, sale and use, warning that violations could attract up to five years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh.The Delhi government had also said accidents involving Chinese manjha are reported every year around August 15, with the sharp string posing a danger not only to people but also to birds and animals.Despite the restrictions, local residents in Ghaziabad alleged that the banned string continues to be easily available in markets. They urged the police and administration to identify sellers and take strict action against those involved in its illegal sale.The incident has again raised questions over how the banned string continues to reach markets despite restrictions and whether existing enforcement measures are sufficient to prevent such accidents.- EndsPublished On: Aug 16, 2026 18:01 IST