At least one person was killed and seven others were injured in kite-related incidents across Lahore. The accidents occurred as Basant celebrations resumed after nearly two decades. The incidents have once again raised serious safety concerns linked to kite flying.
Basant returned to Lahore after a long ban imposed in the early 2000s. Authorities had banned the festival due to repeated fatalities and injuries. Dangerous metal- and glass-coated kite strings were a major cause. Celebratory gunfire had also contributed to deadly incidents in the past.
Despite restrictions and safety warnings, kite flying during Basant 2026 led to multiple accidents. Rescue officials confirmed that several injuries were severe. Law enforcement and emergency services remained on high alert throughout the city.
Young Man Dies After Electrocution While Retrieving Kite
Rescue officials reported that a 25-year-old man, Ali Rashid, lost his life in a tragic incident. The incident occurred near the Sikh Nullah area of Lahore. Ali Rashid climbed an electricity pole to retrieve a kite that had become stuck.
During the attempt, he came into contact with live electrical wires. He was electrocuted on the spot and sustained critical injuries. Rescue teams rushed him to a nearby hospital. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
After completing legal formalities, his body was handed over to his family. The incident caused grief and anger among local residents. Authorities warned citizens against climbing poles or entering dangerous areas to retrieve kites.
Officials stressed that electricity infrastructure poses serious risks. Such actions can lead to instant fatalities. Public awareness campaigns had advised people to avoid such behavior.
Multiple Injuries Caused by Dangerous Kite Strings
Several injuries were reported due to stray kite strings across Lahore. In Defence Housing Authority (DHA), a 21-year-old man sustained serious neck injuries. He came into contact with a loose kite string while moving through the area.
The victim was shifted to a hospital for emergency treatment. Doctors described his injuries as serious but stable. The incident highlighted the danger of unattended kite strings left hanging on roads and streets.
In another alarming case, an eight-year-old girl named Irha was critically injured in Gulshan-e-Ravi. She was riding a motorcycle with her father when a kite string wrapped around her neck. The sharp string caused deep cuts and heavy bleeding.
Rescue teams rushed the child to a hospital. Medical staff described her condition as critical. The incident sparked outrage among residents and renewed calls for strict enforcement of kite laws.
Falls, Cuts, and Rooftop Accidents Reported Citywide
Other injuries were reported from different parts of the city. A 45-year-old man sustained facial and neck injuries while riding a motorcycle. A kite string suddenly struck him, causing him to lose control.
Several people also fell from rooftops while flying kites. Others were injured while chasing or retrieving fallen kites. Some victims fell from trees or balconies. Many suffered deep cuts on hands, faces, and legs.
Rescue officials said such incidents are common during Basant. They warned that kite flying remains a high-risk activity. The use of banned metallic and chemical-coated strings continues despite enforcement efforts.
Authorities urged citizens to follow safety guidelines. Parents were asked to keep children away from dangerous areas. Officials said strict action would be taken against violators.
The recent incidents have renewed debate over Basant celebrations. Many residents are demanding stronger enforcement and safer alternatives. The tragic events highlight the serious risks still associated with kite flying in Lahore.
