▫️ Strict Safety Measures and Regulatory Compliance to be Enforced

▫️ Residents Express Concerns Over Safety and Community Impact

30 December 2025

Lahore : ReNews Reporter | Local News Desk

The Lahore district administration has officially announced the celebration of Basant 2026, scheduled from 6 to 8 February 2026, while making online registration mandatory for all kite and string manufacturers and traders. The sale of kite flying materials will be allowed from 1 to 8 February, and manufacturers may begin legal operations from 30 December 2025, under strict regulatory oversight.

Deputy Commissioner Lahore, Syed Musa Raza, issued an official notification confirming that kite flying will be permitted within the territorial limits of Lahore District, in accordance with Section 6(1) of the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Rules 2025, with the approval of the Punjab government. The administration has implemented standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the festival, which will be strictly enforced by district authorities, police, kite associations, and residents.

Under the SOPs, kite flying is only allowed with approved materials listed in Schedule I of the 2025 rules. All registered manufacturers, traders, and sellers must display valid registration certificates at approved premises. The production and sale of spinning wheels is strictly prohibited, and only ‘pinna’ string is permitted. Kite sizes must remain within limits prescribed by the regulations.

Motorcyclists participating in kite flying are also required to install safety wires on their vehicles to minimize accidents.

Authorities have warned that a zero-tolerance policy will be applied against the use of prohibited strings, including nylon, plastic, and metal wires. Police and district officials will conduct rigorous inspections, and any violations will be addressed immediately.

Law-abiding manufacturers and traders operating within the rules are assured full legal protection.

Residents of Lahore’s urban neighborhoods have shared mixed reactions to the announcement. While the festival is an important cultural and economic activity, many expressed concerns regarding safety, potential accidents, and public hazards. Some residents recalled past incidents where unsafe kite flying practices caused injuries and property damage, emphasizing that densely populated areas require extra caution. Citizens highlighted the potential impact on community confidence and the safety perception of neighborhoods, which may indirectly influence local property values and urban livability.

Several families pointed out that children and young adults may be particularly vulnerable during Basant, especially if prohibited strings or oversized kites are used. They urged authorities to ensure effective monitoring and strict enforcement to prevent accidents and protect residents’ safety.

The Deputy Commissioner stated that Basant is a cultural festival of Lahore and reaffirmed that authorities have a responsibility to ensure it is celebrated safely. He emphasized that the protection of human life is the top priority, and urged parents to prevent children from handling prohibited strings or unsafe kites. Law-abiding participants and registered manufacturers will be provided full legal safeguards, provided they comply with all safety measures and regulations.

The government’s initiative reflects an effort to permit legal Basant-related commerce while safeguarding residents and urban neighborhoods. Strict adherence to the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Rules 2025 is mandatory for all stakeholders.

Authorities will maintain continuous monitoring, ensuring that operations do not compromise public safety or urban order.

The administration also highlighted the broader implications for residential areas. Safe management of kite flying activities ensures that communities can celebrate the festival without risking damage to property or disruption to daily life. The move aims to strike a balance between cultural celebration, economic activity, and community welfare, while providing a secure and structured environment for residents and participants alike.

With registration portals and the E-Biz app activated for manufacturers and traders, authorities are seeking full compliance and accountability. All participants are required to complete digital registration, and only registered sellers are authorized to supply kite flying materials to the public.

The administration reiterated that violators of safety and regulatory rules will face strict action.

By combining legal oversight, safety procedures, and resident awareness, the Lahore district administration intends to host Basant 2026 in a controlled and safe manner, ensuring the festival can be celebrated while minimizing risks to urban residents, neighborhoods, and property.