Punjab kite-flying ban continues, 3-day Basant relief allowed in February
LAHORE: The Punjab kite flying ban will remain in force across the province under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Bill 2025, with authorities announcing only a brief three-day relaxation to allow celebrations of the traditional Basant festival in February.
The Punjab Home Department said on Thursday that kite flying will remain illegal throughout the province, except for a limited window from February 6 to February 8, during which Basant may be celebrated legally in Lahore only.
The department clarified that kite flying before or after the fixed days and timings will be considered a violation of the law and will invite strict legal action.
The Punjab Assembly passed the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Bill 2025 on December 24 with a majority vote, introducing stringent rules and penalties aimed at protecting human life and property. The new legislation repealed the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Ordinance 2001.
Under the law, violations related to kite flying can result in imprisonment of up to five years, fines of up to Rs2 million, or both.
The legislation further stipulates that the manufacture, use, storage, and sale of kites and chemical strings may lead to prison terms of up to seven years and fines of up to Rs5 million.
Officials said the brief permission for Basant reflects the government’s attempt to balance cultural traditions with public safety concerns, particularly incidents involving hazardous kite strings that have previously caused fatal accidents.
The Home Department reiterated that law enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the ban across Punjab, warning that no leniency will be shown outside the officially permitted Basant days.
