The Punjab government on Monday approved the manufacture of permissible kite-flying material in four additional districts as demand surged and prices increased ahead of the Basant festival in Lahore.
Basant will be celebrated in Lahore from February 6 to February 8 under strict regulations, following the provincial government’s decision to lift the ban after 18 years. The celebrations will remain confined to the provincial capital only.
Previously, Lahore was the sole district allowed to manufacture approved kite-flying material. However, rising demand and concerns over supply shortages prompted the government to expand manufacturing permissions.
In a letter dated February 1, the Punjab Home Department informed the relevant deputy commissioners that the provincial cabinet had approved manufacturing in Faisalabad, Kasur, Multan, and Sheikhupura.
According to the notification, all manufacturers must register with their respective deputy commissioners and also complete registration through the Punjab government’s e-Biz digital portal before beginning production.
The Home Department stressed that manufacturers are strictly allowed to produce only permissible kite-flying material and must fully comply with the government’s approved standards.
Under official instructions, only cotton string is permitted for kite-flying during Basant. The manufacture, sale, or use of metallic string remains completely banned across the province.
Authorities also reiterated that kites exceeding approved sizes will not be allowed to be manufactured or flown during the festival to ensure public safety.
As per the code of conduct, a 1.5 Tawa Gudda kite must measure 40 inches in width and 34 inches in length, while a 4.5 Guddi kite is restricted to 35 inches in width and 30 inches in length.
Any kite larger than the specified dimensions will be considered illegal, and strict action will be taken against violators under the relevant laws.
In addition, the provincial government has banned the manufacture of kites displaying images of individuals, holy scriptures, religious sites, national flags, or political party symbols.
Officials said these measures aim to balance cultural celebration with public safety, following years of concerns over fatal incidents linked to unsafe kite-flying practices.
Authorities have warned that enforcement teams will remain active throughout the Basant period to ensure compliance with the approved code of conduct.
Also read: Lahore Bans Basant 2026 at Multiple Places
