By webdesk 
Historic Decision Allows Conditional Kite-Flying Festivities
The Punjab government has officially ended its 25-year ban on Basant celebrations, permitting the traditional kite-flying festival under strict regulations. The decision comes after Governor Salim Haider signed an ordinance allowing controlled festivities while prioritizing public safety. The ban, originally imposed in 2001, was enforced due to numerous fatalities caused by chemical-coated and metal kite strings.
New Regulations Aim to Prevent Past Tragedies
To mitigate risks, the government has introduced stringent rules for Basant celebrations:
- Children under 18 are prohibited from flying kites, with parents or guardians facing fines if minors violate the rule.
- Only cotton strings are permitted, while metal or chemical-coated strings will result in severe penalties.
- In Lahore, violators using hazardous strings may face 3 to 5 years in prison and fines up to Rs 2 million.
Strict Penalties and Registration Requirements
The ordinance enforces heavy fines for underage kite-flying:
- First offense: Rs 50,000
- Second offense: Rs 100,000
- Failure to pay will lead to legal action against parents or guardians.
Additionally, kite sellers and manufacturers must register with the district deputy commissioner and use QR codes for tracking. Kites and strings will carry scannable QR codes to identify sellers, ensuring accountability.
Safety Measures for Motorcyclists and Public
The government has also emphasized road safety, particularly for motorcyclists, who are at high risk from stray kite strings. Authorities will monitor compliance, ensuring that festivities do not endanger lives.