LAHORE (Web Desk) - The Punjab government on Wednesday formally lifted the 25-year ban on Basant festivities, allowing kite flying under strict safety conditions through a newly issued ordinance signed by Punjab Governor Salim Haider.
Punjab had outlawed kite flying in 2001 after numerous deaths caused by metal or chemically coated strings. Under the new rules, only pure cotton string is permitted, while hazardous strings will attract severe punishments.
The ordinance states that children under 18 will not be allowed to fly kites. Parents or guardians will be held legally responsible for violations, with fines starting at Rs50,000 for the first offence and Rs100,000 for the second. Failure to pay will trigger action against the parent or guardian.
In Lahore, individuals found using dangerous strings may face three to five years in prison and fines of up to Rs2 million. The ordinance also stresses enhanced safety measures for motorcyclists during the festival.
Kite-flying associations must now register with the district deputy commissioner, while kites may be bought only from registered sellers. Each seller will be connected to a QR code, and kites will also carry QR codes to verify their origin. Manufacturers of kite string will be subject to the same digital tracking system.