Why Are Motorcyclists In Pakistan Riding With Iron Rods? Unfolding Viral Mystery

A video circulating online from Pakistan has caught the internet’s attention, not for political reasons but for a striking safety measure spotted on Lahore’s busy streets.The viral clip shows motorcycles and scooters moving through the city with long iron rods mounted vertically at the front. From major arterial roads to narrow residential lanes, the unusual add-on appears to be almost everywhere. As the footage spread rapidly across social media platforms, curiosity around the rods grew, and their demand reportedly surged, with vendors selling them at multiple locations across Lahore.Initially, the sight left many social media users puzzled and amused. Some jokingly suggested the rods were meant for self-defence, while others attempted to draw

links to regional or political tensions. Memes and humorous takes flooded timelines. However, the real reason behind the modification is rooted in a serious public safety concern.

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Kite flying, a deeply rooted and widely enjoyed pastime in Pakistan, much like in several parts of India, has increasingly turned dangerous in recent years. Many kites are flown using plastic string, commonly referred to as ‘Chinese manjha’. In some cases, even traditional cotton thread is coated with powdered glass to make it sharper and more competitive during kite-flying battles. When these sharp strings snap or hang loosely across roads, they become almost invisible traps for unsuspecting two-wheeler riders.There have been numerous incidents over the years in which riders have suffered severe injuries after kite strings slashed their necks, faces or eyes, with some accidents proving fatal. Children, commuters and delivery riders are often among the worst affected. To reduce the risk of such injuries, residents have begun attaching iron rods or metal sticks to the front of their motorcycles and scooters. These rods act as a protective barrier, intercepting and snapping the string before it can reach the rider.Such preventive measures are not unique to Pakistan. Similar safety adaptations have been seen in several Indian cities as well, particularly during the peak kite-flying season between January and February. During this period, authorities and citizens alike frequently raise concerns over accidents caused by sharp or glass-coated strings, highlighting the ongoing need for safer practices around the popular sport.