Lahore: The Punjab government on Tuesday lifted its 18-year ban on kite flying, allowing the celebration of Basant under a strict regulatory framework aimed at preventing injuries and fatalities linked to hazardous kite strings.
The ban, imposed in 2007, followed a surge in deaths and serious accidents, particularly among motorcyclists, caused by chemically coated and metal-laced kite strings. Under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, the festival will now be permitted only under controlled conditions.
Key measures include an age bar on kite flying, with anyone under 18 prohibited from participating. A fine of PKR 50,000 will be imposed for the first violation and PKR 100,000 for repeat offences, with action extendable to a parent or guardian if fines go unpaid.
The ordinance also introduces heavy penalties for the use or sale of banned strings. Only thread-based kite strings will be allowed, while metallic or chemically coated variants remain strictly prohibited. Violators may face imprisonment of three to five years and fines of up to PKR 2 million.
To regulate the supply chain, manufacturers, traders and shopkeepers will be required to register with the respective deputy commissioner. All kites will carry QR codes to help trace sellers and ensure compliance.
Although the ordinance has been promulgated by the governor, it still requires approval from the provincial assembly to become law. The government maintains that the new framework aims to revive the cultural festival while prioritising public safety.
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