Lahore: The district administration has enforced a no-fly zone for kite flying in areas surrounding Allama Iqbal International Airport as part of comprehensive safety measures ahead of the Basant festival scheduled from February 6 to 8.
According to a notification issued by the deputy commissioner, kite flying will be prohibited in areas falling within aircraft approach and take-off paths during the three-day festival to ensure passenger safety and prevent disruption to flight operations. The restriction comes after the Punjab government conditionally allowed Basant celebrations last month, ending a nearly two-decade-long ban on kite flying under strict regulatory controls.
In parallel, the Lahore police have intensified enforcement measures to ensure compliance with the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Act, 2025. Lahore Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Bilal Siddique Kamyana directed that surety bonds be obtained from owners of rooftops designated for Basant activities and warned that no more than the permitted number of people would be allowed on rooftops. He also ordered the formation of special police teams to monitor celebrations, stressing zero tolerance for aerial firing, display of weapons, and other violations.
The CCPO further instructed strict implementation of safety requirements, including the use of safety rods on motorcycles and immediate action against violators without discrimination.
Meanwhile, the Punjab Health Department has placed 13 government hospitals in Lahore on high alert for the duration of the festival. Hospitals have been instructed to ensure full availability of medical, nursing, and paramedical staff, along with adequate stocks of medicines, blood bags, and surgical equipment. Dedicated beds have been allocated for festival-related emergencies, and diagnostic facilities such as X-ray, CT scan, MRI, and ultrasound machines have been directed to remain fully operational.
Hospital administrations have also been told to maintain uninterrupted communication links and submit detailed emergency preparedness plans to the health department.
Officials said the combined measures are aimed at facilitating regulated Basant celebrations while minimising risks to aviation safety, public order, and public health.
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