LAHORE: Kite flying has officially returned to Punjab after 25 years, as the provincial government issued a comprehensive ordinance allowing Basant celebrations under strict and regulated conditions. The move marks the revival of a long-awaited cultural tradition.
Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider signed the legislation, which grants conditional permission for kite flying across the province. The government stated that the controlled revival aims to preserve cultural heritage while ensuring public safety.
According to the ordinance, Basant celebrations will proceed only within a framework of detailed rules. The government designed these rules to prevent past tragedies linked to hazardous strings and unsafe flying practices. Officials stressed that safety remains the top priority as festivities resume.
Moreover, the ordinance outlines stringent penalties for violations. Offenders can face a minimum of three years and a maximum of five years in prison. Authorities may also impose fines of up to Rs2 million on those who disregard safety requirements. Law enforcement personnel now have the authority to search suspicious locations, and all offences under the ordinance are non-bailable.
The law also bans metal, chemical-coated, and sharp-edged strings. Only thread-based strings will be allowed. Anyone caught using dangerous materials will face severe punishment. Furthermore, children under 18 years will not be allowed to fly kites. Minors who violate the law will face fines of Rs50,000 for the first offence and Rs100,000 for the second. If guardians fail to pay the fine, authorities will initiate action against them.
Additionally, the government has introduced a complete registration system for kite flying. Kite-flying associations must register with district deputy commissioners. Shopkeepers selling kites will also be registered and linked to QR codes. Each kite will carry a QR code to identify the seller. String makers will receive similar QR-based identification. The government will further encourage whistleblowers to report violations.
The ordinance also mandates specific safety measures for motorcycles during Basant. Officials introduced these rules to prevent accidents caused by stray kite strings, which historically led to serious injuries.
The revival of Basant forms part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s broader initiative to restore Punjab’s cultural and civilizational festivals. Many of these traditions had faded over the past three decades.
Officials said the controlled return of Basant aims to strike a balance between celebration and safety. They added that the new framework opens a cautious yet hopeful chapter for one of Punjab’s most cherished traditions.
