Despite an ongoing ban on kite flying, residents of Rawalpindi celebrated Basant on Friday by flying kites from rooftops, chanting “Bo Kata” in defiance of authorities. The festivities continued even as police intensified crackdowns to enforce safety regulations across the city.
Officials reported that at least seven people sustained cuts from kite strings during the celebrations. A 35-year-old man was critically injured by a stray bullet, allegedly fired during celebratory gunfire, and was rushed to the District Headquarters Hospital, Rawalpindi for treatment.
Children chasing loose kites caused traffic congestion in several areas, including Raja Bazaar, Pirwadhai, and Sadiqabad, creating hazardous conditions for motorists, especially motorcyclists, who were forced to navigate crowded streets cautiously.
Police registered cases against kite sellers and flyers, arresting several individuals and recovering hundreds of kites and reels of string. However, enforcement struggled as many residents continued rooftop kite flying, with some reportedly buying kites online to bypass restrictions.
Some locals expressed frustration over perceived discrimination, noting that limited Basant festivities recently took place in Lahore after authorities allowed controlled celebrations. This prompted residents to ignore restrictions, insisting that they too should be permitted to celebrate the cultural festival.
The Government of Punjab continues to maintain the ban on kite flying, emphasizing the significant safety risks posed by sharp kite strings, which frequently lead to injuries and accidents. Public opinion remains divided, with some calling for strict enforcement to prevent further harm, while others argue for controlled celebrations to preserve tradition.
