Authorities have stepped up efforts to stop illegal kite flying and the sale of dangerous chemical strings ahead of Basant, launching strict operations in both Islamabad and Punjab.
Islamabad Police said it has intensified its crackdown to prevent the trade and use of kites and harmful strings that pose serious risks to public safety. A police spokesperson confirmed that officers from Lohi Bher Police Station arrested two suspects, including an Afghan national, for selling kites. The arrests were made after police intercepted a bus traveling from Peshawar to Gujranwala, from which a large quantity of kites and chemical strings was recovered.
SSP Operations Islamabad, Qazi Ali Raza, said police seized 472 rolls of various types of chemical strings, along with more than 2,700 kites, spinning wheels, and other kite-flying equipment. He stressed that kite flying is no longer a harmless pastime and has turned into a dangerous activity. According to him, chemical strings are especially hazardous and have caused serious injuries and deaths, putting children, motorcyclists, and pedestrians at constant risk.
Qazi Ali Raza urged parents to strictly stop their children from participating in kite flying, particularly during the Basant season. He added that public cooperation is essential to maintain peace and safety in the city.
Meanwhile, Punjab Police has also intensified province-wide action against kite flying. In an 18-day report, Punjab Police said 357 suspects were arrested and 360 cases were registered for violations of the Kite Flying Act. During these operations, police recovered more than 30,700 kites and 676 spinning wheels from different areas of Punjab.
In Lahore alone, police arrested 107 people and seized 2,650 kites along with 97 chemical strings. Inspector General of Punjab Police, Usman Anwar, said kite flying would not be tolerated anywhere in the province. He clarified that Basant celebrations in Lahore are permitted only on limited days under strict rules.
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The IG Punjab also warned that those involved in the online sale of kites would face legal action and urged citizens to report kite flying by calling emergency helpline 15.
