The Punjab Cabinet Committee has approved a ban on all activities related to kite flying and the manufacturing of dangerous twines and strings.
The decision was made during a meeting of Punjab Cabinet Committee on Law and Privatisation, presided over by Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rahman. Law Minister Sohaib Bharath was also present, and Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique participated via video link.
Key amendments were approved to the Punjab Arms Ordinance 1965 and the Prohibition of Kite Flying Ordinance 2001. As a result, kite flying and the production of harmful kite strings will be completely banned.
The preparation and sale of kite strings, including those made from metal wires and other hazardous materials, are now strictly prohibited. Violators of the ban would face severe consequences, with a minimum sentence of three-year imprisonment for kite flying and at least five-year imprisonment, or a hefty fine, for the manufacture and distribution of such dangerous materials.
The committee has proposed in the amendment that the fines would be collected from parents of children found violating the kite flying ban. Additionally, unauthorized sale, repair, manufacturing, and sports shooting of firearms without a license will also be banned under new amendments.
The committee proposed further amendments to the Punjab Vagrancy Ordinance 1958 and the Probation of Offenders Ordinance 1960, aiming to crack down on illegal activities across the province. “No concessions should be given to those who risk people’s lives in the name of entertainment,” emphasized Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rahman.
The new regulations reflect a broader commitment to public safety and legal enforcement, with officials determined to ensure that entertainment does not come at the cost of human lives.