Punjab Police have stepped up enforcement efforts during Basant 2026 celebrations across the province. Authorities are taking strict action against violations of the Kite Flying Act and official safety guidelines. The crackdown aims to prevent accidents and ensure public safety during the long-awaited festival.
According to a police spokesperson, enforcement operations continued across Punjab over the past 24 hours. These actions were carried out in major cities, including Lahore. Law enforcement agencies remained active throughout the celebrations to curb illegal activities linked to kite flying.
Province-Wide Operations and Arrests
Police confirmed that 193 cases were registered across Punjab within a single day. These cases resulted in the arrest of 191 suspects. The arrests were linked to violations of standard operating procedures issued for Basant 2026.
During the operations, police recovered a large quantity of banned materials. Authorities seized 22,755 illegal kites from different locations. They also recovered 462 reels of metallic and chemical-coated kite string. Such string poses serious risks to pedestrians, motorcyclists, and birds.
Officials said these materials were confiscated during raids on manufacturing units, retail outlets, and storage points. Police teams also conducted spot checks in residential areas. Surveillance was increased in densely populated neighborhoods.
Since the beginning of the year, Punjab Police have intensified enforcement against illegal kite flying. So far, 4,486 individuals have been arrested across the province. These suspects were involved in manufacturing, selling, or using prohibited kite string and kites.
Authorities have also seized more than 371,000 illegal kites this year. In addition, 8,648 reels of dangerous string have been confiscated. Police officials described the numbers as evidence of zero tolerance enforcement.
IG Punjab Orders Strict Enforcement During Basant
The Inspector General of Punjab Police has issued clear instructions to all field units. He directed strict action against kite flyers, manufacturers, and sellers. Officers were told to show no leniency toward violators.
Special emphasis was placed on Lahore due to large-scale celebrations. The IG ordered robust security arrangements for the three-day Basant 2026 festival. Police presence was increased on rooftops, streets, and key public locations.
Authorities clarified that Basant celebrations are allowed only on designated days. All activities must strictly follow government-issued conditions. Any deviation from approved guidelines is subject to legal action.
Police officials said awareness campaigns were also conducted. Citizens were warned about penalties under the Kite Flying Act. Public cooperation was described as essential for safe celebrations.
Basant Returns to Lahore After 25 Years
Despite strict enforcement, festive spirit remained strong in Lahore. Basant 2026 officially began at midnight under tight security arrangements. The festival marked its return to the city after a 25-year gap.
Punjab’s Information Minister Azma Bukhari formally inaugurated the event. She flew a kite at 12am to signal the start of celebrations. The moment was met with cheers from residents.
Soon after, Lahore’s skies filled with colorful kites. Rooftops echoed with excitement and chants. Streets were crowded with spectators watching kites soar and fall.
Women played a visible role in the celebrations. Henna-adorned hands, vibrant clothing, and traditional foods added charm to the occasion. Families welcomed Basant with enthusiasm while adhering to safety rules.
Authorities stated that enforcement will continue throughout the festival. Police aim to balance celebration with public safety. Officials urged citizens to celebrate responsibly and follow all regulations.
