LAHORE: Kite flying has officially returned to Punjab after 25 years, as the provincial government issued a detailed ordinance permitting Basant celebrations under tightly regulated conditions. The move, signed by Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider, marks the revival of a cultural festival long awaited by the people of the province.
Read More: Basant to be revived ‘partially’ as per Punjab government’s plans
According to the ordinance, Basant will now be celebrated across Punjab, but only within a strict framework designed to prevent accidents and ensure public safety. Officials emphasized that the controlled revival aims to protect cultural heritage while eliminating the dangers associated with past celebrations.
The new law includes stringent penalties for violations, including imprisonment ranging from three to five years. Fines may reach up to Rs2 million for individuals found breaking kite-flying rules or using banned materials.
Basant is back after 25 years.
Kudos to Punjab Government for bringing this joy and tradition back to life. Basant will no longer be unsafe or unsupervised. This Much Awaited comeback is truly a celebration of heritage reborn. #BasantReturns pic.twitter.com/EOheBLvI03— Muneeb Farooq (@muneebfaruqpak) December 3, 2025
Law enforcement agencies have also been given expanded authority, allowing them to search suspicious locations and confiscate illegal kite-flying equipment. All offences under the ordinance have been declared non-bailable, indicating the government’s firm stance.
The ordinance strictly prohibits the use of metal, chemical-coated, or sharp-edged strings, allowing only thread-based kite strings during Basant. Anyone caught using dangerous material will face severe legal action under the new regulations.
Children under the age of 18 will not be permitted to fly kites under any circumstances. Minors found violating the rules will face fines of Rs50,000 for the first offence and Rs100,000 for the second, with parents or guardians held responsible if the fines remain unpaid.
Return of the Basant festival in Punjab
➡️Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 issued
Registration made mandatory for kite-making and kite-selling.
Violation of the law will result in 3 to 5 years imprisonment and a fine of Rs 2 million. pic.twitter.com/2bT0CPfd4o
— PMLN (@pmln_org) December 3, 2025
To ensure transparency and traceability, the government has introduced a registration and QR-code tracking system for kite sellers, kite makers, and string manufacturers. Kite-flying associations will also be required to register with district authorities before participating in Basant activities.
The ordinance additionally sets safety guidelines for motorcycles during the festival to prevent injuries from stray strings. Officials say these measures are crucial to avoiding the tragic incidents previously linked to Basant.
Read More: Basant everywhere, but not in Lahore angers Lahoris
The revival of kite flying comes as part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s initiative to restore Punjab’s cultural festivals that had diminished over the decades. Authorities believe the controlled return of Basant will offer a safe and vibrant celebration of one of the province’s most cherished traditions.