Authorities in Lahore have imposed Section 144 for 30 days and announced strict safety and public order measures ahead of Basant celebrations, warning that violations could result in lengthy prison terms and heavy fines.
According to officials, Section 144 has been enforced with immediate effect to prevent mischief, provocation, and potential law and order issues during the festival. Law enforcement agencies have been directed to take strict action against anyone violating the restrictions.
Under the new rules, authorities have imposed a complete ban on kites carrying political or religious imagery. Kites displaying flags of any country or political party, images of personalities, holy books, or religious places are strictly prohibited. Only single-colour or plain multi-coloured kites without pictures or symbols will be allowed during Basant.
The restrictions have been introduced amid concerns that provocative elements could exploit the occasion by using political or religious symbols, potentially disturbing public order and religious harmony.
In addition, the Punjab government has imposed a total ban on dangerous kite strings and materials under the Punjab Kite Flying Act 2025.
The use of metal wire, nylon string, and glass-coated or chemical strings has been outlawed. Authorities have also banned the manufacture, transportation, storage, sale, and use of hazardous kites and strings, citing serious public safety risks and past fatal accidents.
The Punjab Home Department announced severe punishments for violations. Flying kites before officially permitted dates may result in up to five years in prison and a fine of up to Rs2 million. Those involved in the manufacture or sale of prohibited kites or strings could face up to seven years in prison and fines reaching Rs5 million.
The Punjab government has granted conditional permission for Basant as a recreational festival in Lahore from February 6 to 8, with a formal notification issued by the Lahore deputy commissioner.
Meanwhile, kite manufacturers in Lahore are struggling to meet surging demand following the revival of Basant after nearly two decades. Kite associations have requested permission to procure kites from other parts of the country to address shortages, a proposal currently under review by the district administration.
Officials reiterated that no lawbreaking would be tolerated and that all measures aim to ensure a safe, peaceful, and harmonious Basant celebration.
