By Our Correspondent
LAHORE — In a landmark development, the Punjab government has reinstated Basant festivities after nearly a quarter-century, issuing a stringent ordinance that permits kite-flying under carefully crafted conditions.
The ordinance, signed by Governor Salim Haider, lays out an entire regulatory framework for the festival, reviving the cherished spring celebration that had been outlawed since 2001.
However, the approval comes with strict strings attached—literally and figuratively.
Under the new rules, individuals under 18 years of age are completely barred from participating in kite-flying. Any breach by minors will result in direct liability for parents or guardians, who may face non-bailable offenses and heavy financial penalties: Rs50,000 for the first violation and Rs100,000 for the second.
The government has made it clear that only thread-based kite string is permitted. Use of metal, chemical, or glass-coated string—long associated with fatal accidents—will invite severe punishment, including three to five years’ imprisonment and fines reaching up to Rs2 million.
Motorcyclists in Basant zones will also be required to follow special safety protocols.
To ensure tighter oversight, authorities have been empowered to conduct searches of suspected locations. Meanwhile, the kite-flying industry itself will come under a formal registration mechanism. All kite-flying associations must register with the respective deputy commissioner, while kite sellers and manufacturers must operate only after official approval.
Every kite, seller, and string manufacturer will be issued QR-coded identification, allowing officials to trace responsibility in case of violations. Purchases must be made exclusively from registered vendors.
With this ordinance, the government hopes to strike a balance between reviving a vibrant cultural tradition and protecting public safety—bringing Basant back, but under the strictest rulebook the festival has ever seen.
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