LAHORE: Lahoris climbed rooftops across the city on Sunday as the third and final day of the Basant kite-flying festival unfolded under clear and favourable weather conditions. Consequently, colourful kites dotted the skyline while families and friends gathered to celebrate the long-awaited return of the traditional festival.
The Punjab government allowed Basant to resume on February 6 after lifting a ban lasting more than two decades. The prohibition followed multiple deaths and injuries linked to sharp kite strings and celebratory gunfire. However, authorities said the revival aimed to balance cultural expression with public safety.
Security measures tightened to maintain order
Meanwhile, officials imposed strict regulations to prevent accidents and maintain public order. According to a government spokesperson, authorities banned kites displaying images or symbols linked to holy books, religious sites, political parties, personalities, or national flags. In addition, officials prohibited metallic wire and nylon string, while mandating safety rods on motorcycles throughout Lahore.
Moreover, security teams conducted strict checking and scanning of vehicles entering the city. Law enforcement allowed only approved kite-flying material, confiscating prohibited items at multiple entry points.
To enforce the measures, authorities deployed more than 10,000 police officers and personnel citywide. Checkpoints operated across zones, including 104 in the Red Zone, 92 in the Yellow Zone, and 72 in the Green Zone. Police also monitored rooftops, bridges, underpasses, and key entry and exit routes.
Despite precautions, kite-related incidents occurred. On Friday, authorities reported one fatality and five injuries in separate incidents. Twenty-five-year-old Ali Rasheed died after suffering electrocution while retrieving a kite near the Sikh Canal in Baghbanpura.
