Kite flying has officially returned to Punjab after 25 years, as the provincial government issued a detailed ordinance allowing Basant celebrations under strict safety rules. The legislation, signed by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider, marks the revival of a tradition many in the province have been waiting to celebrate again.
The new law permits kite flying across Punjab but only within a controlled and regulated system. The government says the aim is to protect citizens while keeping Punjab’s cultural heritage alive. The restrictions are meant to prevent the accidents and tragedies that led to the ban nearly two decades ago.
The ordinance introduces tough penalties for anyone who violates the rules. Offenders can face between three and five years in prison, along with fines that may reach up to Rs2 million. Police have also been given the power to search any location suspected of hosting illegal kite-flying activities, and all offences under this law will be non-bailable.
One of the central rules is the ban on hazardous strings. Only thread-based strings will be allowed, while metal, chemical-coated, and sharp strings remain strictly prohibited. Anyone caught using dangerous material will face serious punishment. Children under 18 will not be allowed to fly kites. Minors caught violating the law will face fines of Rs50,000 for the first offence and Rs100,000 for the second, with legal action taken against guardians if fines are not paid.
To ensure smooth monitoring, the government has introduced a registration and tracking system. Kite-flying associations must register with their district deputy commissioner. All shopkeepers selling kites will also need official registration and must use QR codes printed on every kite, allowing authorities to trace the seller. Makers of kite strings will follow the same QR-based system. Whistleblowers will receive legal support and encouragement to report violations.
The ordinance also includes safety measures for motorcycles during Basant, aiming to reduce accidents linked to stray strings.
The revival of kite flying is part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s broader effort to bring back Punjab’s traditional festivals and cultural events, many of which have faded over the past three decades. Officials say the controlled return of Basant reflects a balance between celebration and public safety, opening a new chapter for one of Punjab’s most beloved traditions.
