Punjab lifts 25-year Basant ban with strict conditions

LAHORE (RNN TV) — The Punjab government has lifted its 25-year ban on kite flying, allowing the celebration of Basant with tight restrictions aimed at ensuring safety.

The new regulations, issued under the Punjab Basant Celebration Ordinance, have been signed by Punjab Governor Salim Haider. The ban, which was imposed in 2001, followed a growing number of deaths caused by hazardous, metal- and chemical-coated kite strings.

Under the new law, kite flying will only be allowed with cotton-based strings. The use of dangerous strings will carry severe penalties, including prison sentences of 3 to 5 years and fines of up to Rs2 million in Lahore.

One of the key stipulations is that children under 18 will be banned from flying kites. Parents or guardians will be held accountable for any violations. For minors, the first offense will incur a fine of Rs50,000, with fines increasing to Rs100,000 for repeat violations.

The ordinance also outlines a comprehensive registration system for kite flying associations, manufacturers, and sellers. Every kite sold will carry a unique QR code, which will help trace its origin. Shopkeepers and manufacturers must also register, ensuring full accountability.

Authorities have also emphasized the importance of safety measures, particularly for motorcyclists, to avoid accidents involving stray kite strings.