The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province ahead of Basant to maintain public order and ensure safety during the festival.
The restrictions ban kites displaying images of religious books, sites, personalities, national flags, or political symbols. Only plain single-color or multi-color kites without designs are allowed.
The ban covers manufacture, sale, purchase, transportation, and use of prohibited kites for 30 days. Violating the restrictions is considered a punishable offence under the law.
Authorities say the measures aim to prevent misuse of the festival for provocative or political purposes. Law enforcement agencies have been directed to strictly enforce the rules.
Punjab has granted conditional permission for a “safe Basant” in Lahore from February 6 to 8. The Deputy Commissioner Lahore issued a formal notification under the Punjab Kite Flying Act 2025.
The Home Department emphasized that Basant is allowed strictly as a recreational festival. Any violation of the law will face strict action. The restrictions are also meant to respect religious sentiments.
Under the Punjab Kite Flying Act 2025, the use of metal wire, nylon string, or glass-coated string is completely banned. The law also prohibits manufacturing, storing, transporting, or selling dangerous kites and strings.
Flying kites before the designated dates can lead to up to five years in prison and fines of up to Rs 2 million. Authorities have warned the public to follow safety guidelines and ensure compliance during Basant celebrations.
Officials said that conditional permission and strict regulations are part of the government’s effort to balance tradition with safety. The province has seen accidents and injuries during past Basant festivals due to unsafe kite flying practices.
The government urges citizens to enjoy the festival responsibly. Only approved kites and safe flying practices are allowed. Police have been tasked to patrol key areas and prevent illegal kite flying. Read our full news on Punjab Bans 132 Suggestive Songs During Basant Festivities to see the complete list of prohibited tracks.
With Section 144 in effect, authorities hope this year’s Basant will be both safe and festive, preserving the cultural tradition while protecting lives.
