The Punjab Assembly has approved the Kite-Flying Ordinance 2025. The Standing Committee on Interior cleared the ordinance earlier. The Governor has also granted approval. The ordinance will be presented in the next assembly session for formal ratification.
The new law replaces the earlier 2001 ban on kite flying. Authorities aim to allow limited kite flying under strict regulation. Public safety remains the central focus of the ordinance.
District Administration Given Key Authority
Under the ordinance, Deputy Commissioners will oversee kite-flying permissions. Kite flying will only be allowed after government approval. Each district will follow specific guidelines issued by authorities.
Registration has been made mandatory for kite makers and sellers. Deputy Commissioners will manage the registration process. Kite-flying organizations must also register before operating.
Strict Penalties for Illegal Activities
The ordinance introduces tough penalties for violations. Anyone making or selling kites or strings without registration may face up to five years in prison. Fines can reach Rs500,000 for such offenses.
A complete ban has been imposed on metallic, chemical-coated, and dangerously sharp strings. Manufacturing or selling these materials may result in imprisonment up to five years. Fines for these violations can reach Rs2 million.
Police officers of sub-inspector rank and above can conduct warrantless searches. They can also make arrests upon receiving information about prohibited materials.
Additional Safety Measures Introduced
The ordinance includes additional safety provisions. Motorcycle riders must use protective equipment in districts where kite flying is permitted. This rule aims to reduce injury risks during kite-flying seasons.
Authorities emphasized that safety remains a top priority. The ordinance focuses on preventing accidents and fatalities linked to dangerous kite strings.
Rules for Basant Celebrations
The Punjab government has granted conditional permission for Basant celebrations. Kite flying during Basant will follow strict rules. Children under 18 years of age are not allowed to fly kites.
Guardians will be held responsible for violations by minors. For children, the first offense will result in a Rs50,000 fine. A second offense will carry a Rs100,000 fine.
Failure to pay fines will trigger legal action against guardians. These measures aim to ensure accountability.
Registration and QR Code System
Kite-flying associations must register with the Deputy Commissioner of their district. Kites can only be purchased from registered vendors. Each vendor will be linked to a unique QR code.
Kites will also carry QR codes to identify sellers. This system aims to improve traceability and enforcement. Authorities believe it will discourage illegal manufacturing and sales.
