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Apparently been there since 2009 (year of the SL team attack)?
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Should the Govt remove the ban on Basant celebrations in Lahore?
- Thread starter MenInG
- Start date
marlonbrowndo
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No. Too many unnecessary deaths. What they could do is designate certain areas where people should be allowed to fly kites.
cricketjoshila
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Why was it banned?
waqar goraya
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I am afraid our people don't deserve a remove. I myself used to enjoy it but we used to lose 10-20 lives in every major city of Punjab during this festival.
The primary concern is safety of the masses. Religious lobby has also played some part in its ban but the threat of loss of life is quite legitimate.
There used to be 3 deadly impacts. 1) Excessive Aerial firing 2) throat slits because of sharp twine, bikers were the main victims 3) young boys used to fall from their rooftops.
The number 3 does not deserve a ban because it is their parents' responsibility but controlling of aerial firing and sharp twine has proved impossible for our police. Yes, you can also ban bike riding for a day but people will continue to fly kites with that sharp twine even after or before Basant because it will be in supply for more than a day.
Aerial firing is another thing which police should be able to control as it is their job. If people are strictly punished for this then it is controllable. But they have found a better and easier way to simply ban the event.
In a nutshell, neither our police is so efficient to halt aerial firing and sop production/sale of illegal/sharp twine nor our people have moral, humane and social responsibility to avoid these fatal things.
By the way, the season of Basant has already past. It used to be celebrated during later half of the month of February.
The primary concern is safety of the masses. Religious lobby has also played some part in its ban but the threat of loss of life is quite legitimate.
There used to be 3 deadly impacts. 1) Excessive Aerial firing 2) throat slits because of sharp twine, bikers were the main victims 3) young boys used to fall from their rooftops.
The number 3 does not deserve a ban because it is their parents' responsibility but controlling of aerial firing and sharp twine has proved impossible for our police. Yes, you can also ban bike riding for a day but people will continue to fly kites with that sharp twine even after or before Basant because it will be in supply for more than a day.
Aerial firing is another thing which police should be able to control as it is their job. If people are strictly punished for this then it is controllable. But they have found a better and easier way to simply ban the event.
In a nutshell, neither our police is so efficient to halt aerial firing and sop production/sale of illegal/sharp twine nor our people have moral, humane and social responsibility to avoid these fatal things.
By the way, the season of Basant has already past. It used to be celebrated during later half of the month of February.
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There's basant in rawalpindi today, illegally though. As waqar mentioned our people don't deserve the removal of the ban, there's a kera in everyone to use the glass twine which seems to be getting sharper and sharper every year.
The other day I was with a friend who was flying a kite, I held the twine for a few minutes and during that time the time moved over my hand in a slow speed and I barely felt everything but in a few seconds three of my fingers were bleeding. The people who use this twine almost have their fingers taped. In an attempt to give advantage to people in cutting the other person twine they've made these twine extremely dangerous and this puts other people in danger.
I don't know much about ariel firing in basant so I'm not going to comment but I think this ban is completely justified on the sole reason that sharp twine puts other people's life in danger who are not involved in basant. The falling off of the roof is the person's responsibility and it affects the person who was responsible in the activity and not some uninvolved third person. If one day there's control over the glass twine the basant should be allowed.
The other day I was with a friend who was flying a kite, I held the twine for a few minutes and during that time the time moved over my hand in a slow speed and I barely felt everything but in a few seconds three of my fingers were bleeding. The people who use this twine almost have their fingers taped. In an attempt to give advantage to people in cutting the other person twine they've made these twine extremely dangerous and this puts other people in danger.
I don't know much about ariel firing in basant so I'm not going to comment but I think this ban is completely justified on the sole reason that sharp twine puts other people's life in danger who are not involved in basant. The falling off of the roof is the person's responsibility and it affects the person who was responsible in the activity and not some uninvolved third person. If one day there's control over the glass twine the basant should be allowed.
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The problem is some people just dont know where to stop! They take a simple celebration and turn it into family fueds
Pakpak
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Cpt. Rishwat
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It's a shame since I was in Lahore on Basant last time I was there and it was a fantastic spectacle at night with all the spotlights. But you can't have potentially dangerous public celebrations unless there are safety measures in place.
Syed1
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No, it leads to alot of deaths.
Human life is several times more precious than a day of festivities. If the government is able to curb aerial firing and glass laden twines then restart Basant by all means. Till that time the ban should remain.
Human life is several times more precious than a day of festivities. If the government is able to curb aerial firing and glass laden twines then restart Basant by all means. Till that time the ban should remain.
ilovebouncers
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Should never have been banned, on top of the beautiful festival , alot of families incomes were abolished. It should happen in a controlled environment.
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We had a rivalry with the peechli gali walay
The ban should remain.
bo kata?
The reason why its banned is because of the thread they use.
The thread is made of fiber glass, it could easily slit your throat off.
Problem is, most people in Pakistan travel on bikes, and there have been many cases where people get their throat slit due to the kite string
Also, kite flying is done on roof tops which arn't safe, thus many fall from the roofs, breaking their bones, backs or even meeting death.
Another problem are the kite runners, the kids who run after the cut off kites. 20 kids would be chasing after a kite on the main road, not caring about their life.
It should be banned
The thread is made of fiber glass, it could easily slit your throat off.
Problem is, most people in Pakistan travel on bikes, and there have been many cases where people get their throat slit due to the kite string
Also, kite flying is done on roof tops which arn't safe, thus many fall from the roofs, breaking their bones, backs or even meeting death.
Another problem are the kite runners, the kids who run after the cut off kites. 20 kids would be chasing after a kite on the main road, not caring about their life.
It should be banned
OMB
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Lahore: Three-year-old boy killed after glass-coated kite string slits throat
A three-year-old child was killed after a glass-coated kite string slit his throat, Geo News reported Sunday.
The tragic incident took place near Lahore's Masti Gate area. The child, named Khizar, was travelling on a motorcycle along with his father, Owais, and siblings when a kite string came in the way and slit his jugular vein. He was seated at the front (gas tank) of the motorcycle when the accident took place.
According to a first information report (FIR) registered by the police, the incident took place at around 1:20am when Owais was returning home on his motorcycle along with his kids.
The child was rushed to the hospital but he could not be resuscitated due to the excessive loss of blood.
A case has been registered against the unknown kite flyer under the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Act.
Kite flyers use glass-coated strings to bring down competitors' kites — a practice that injures and kills many people each year.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/354830-lahore-three-year-old-boy-killed-after-glass-coated-kite-string-slits-throat
A three-year-old child was killed after a glass-coated kite string slit his throat, Geo News reported Sunday.
The tragic incident took place near Lahore's Masti Gate area. The child, named Khizar, was travelling on a motorcycle along with his father, Owais, and siblings when a kite string came in the way and slit his jugular vein. He was seated at the front (gas tank) of the motorcycle when the accident took place.
According to a first information report (FIR) registered by the police, the incident took place at around 1:20am when Owais was returning home on his motorcycle along with his kids.
The child was rushed to the hospital but he could not be resuscitated due to the excessive loss of blood.
A case has been registered against the unknown kite flyer under the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Act.
Kite flyers use glass-coated strings to bring down competitors' kites — a practice that injures and kills many people each year.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/354830-lahore-three-year-old-boy-killed-after-glass-coated-kite-string-slits-throat
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A 20-year-old man was killed and at least 50 others, including children, injured in aerial firing and kite-flying related incidents as Basant was celebrated in Rawalpindi despite a ban on the illegal spring festival.
Last month, the Rawalpindi administration imposed a ban on Basant celebrations and kite flying under Section 144, with the Rawalpindi City Police Officer issuing crackdown orders to 33 police stations across the district against those who manufacture kites and strings, or order them from other cities, and sell or buy them.
But, despite the restictrions originally imposed by authorities in 2007 following a spate of accidents, enthusiasts continued to flout the ban on Friday, celebrating the ancient colourful spring festival by flying kites from rooftops in the garrison city.
Last month, the Rawalpindi administration imposed a ban on Basant celebrations and kite flying under Section 144, with the Rawalpindi City Police Officer issuing crackdown orders to 33 police stations across the district against those who manufacture kites and strings, or order them from other cities, and sell or buy them.
But, despite the restictrions originally imposed by authorities in 2007 following a spate of accidents, enthusiasts continued to flout the ban on Friday, celebrating the ancient colourful spring festival by flying kites from rooftops in the garrison city.
Colorblind Genius
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Plchwaarray mein dum nahi, hum kisi sey kum Nahi
That’s the classical example to sum up this arrogant and ignorant nation. No wonder the slave mentality with their numb brains is unable to comprehend that the country is at the brink of default, so what should our priorities be?
That’s the classical example to sum up this arrogant and ignorant nation. No wonder the slave mentality with their numb brains is unable to comprehend that the country is at the brink of default, so what should our priorities be?
sweep_shot
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It seems like a public heath hazard. Keeping it banned makes more sense.
daytrader
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The priorities are different for the rich as they don't feel the pressure of the poor economy. They'll continue their basants and luxury coffees
Just flying kites adds colour to the environment. Anything else like firing should indeed be banned. In Peshawar they fire to celebrate or mourn any event then lets ban that as well. Can't have one rule for Lahore and another for Peshawar.
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Two possible dates for Basant stir speculation in Lahore
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has convened a meeting to discuss the upcoming Basant festival in Lahore, ARY News reported.
According to reports, officials are considering two possible dates for the celebrations: February 14–15 or March 21–22.
The final date for Basant will be decided by the Punjab government and the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lahore will issue a two-day permission based on government directives.
Currently, no registrations for the festival have been submitted at the DC office. Reports suggest that once registrations are received, a follow-up meeting will be held to finalize arrangements for Basant.
After the meeting, authorities will review security and safety measures before granting formal approval for the Basant celebrations.
Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore had presented Basant-related recommendations to the Punjab government, suggesting that Basant be allowed only in selected inner Lahore areas — including Shahi Qila, Mochi Gate, Bhati Gate, and Rang Mahal zones.
A key meeting chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb reviewed the proposal and discussed administrative and safety arrangements for the festival. The city administration has finalized a safe Basant plan and submitted it to the government for approval.
Under the proposed safety rules, the use of metallic, nylon, or chemical string during Basant will be strictly prohibited, while only cotton or starch-coated string will be permitted. All kites and strings used for Basant must carry a barcode, and action will be taken against unregistered kite sellers.
Authorities have also planned a crackdown on illegal and unsafe string manufacturing ahead of festival. In designated Basant areas, motorcycle entry will be restricted, and riders will be required to use safety antennas and neck guards.
The plan also includes installing safety nets and wire-protection systems on main roads to prevent accidents. Officials emphasized that the festival will be allowed only under strict safety compliance to ensure a safe, festive atmosphere for Lahore’s residents.
arynews.tv
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has convened a meeting to discuss the upcoming Basant festival in Lahore, ARY News reported.
According to reports, officials are considering two possible dates for the celebrations: February 14–15 or March 21–22.
The final date for Basant will be decided by the Punjab government and the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lahore will issue a two-day permission based on government directives.
Currently, no registrations for the festival have been submitted at the DC office. Reports suggest that once registrations are received, a follow-up meeting will be held to finalize arrangements for Basant.
After the meeting, authorities will review security and safety measures before granting formal approval for the Basant celebrations.
Earlier, the Deputy Commissioner of Lahore had presented Basant-related recommendations to the Punjab government, suggesting that Basant be allowed only in selected inner Lahore areas — including Shahi Qila, Mochi Gate, Bhati Gate, and Rang Mahal zones.
A key meeting chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb reviewed the proposal and discussed administrative and safety arrangements for the festival. The city administration has finalized a safe Basant plan and submitted it to the government for approval.
Under the proposed safety rules, the use of metallic, nylon, or chemical string during Basant will be strictly prohibited, while only cotton or starch-coated string will be permitted. All kites and strings used for Basant must carry a barcode, and action will be taken against unregistered kite sellers.
Authorities have also planned a crackdown on illegal and unsafe string manufacturing ahead of festival. In designated Basant areas, motorcycle entry will be restricted, and riders will be required to use safety antennas and neck guards.
The plan also includes installing safety nets and wire-protection systems on main roads to prevent accidents. Officials emphasized that the festival will be allowed only under strict safety compliance to ensure a safe, festive atmosphere for Lahore’s residents.
Two possible dates for Basant stir speculation in Lahore
Stay updated on Basant festival 2026 plans in Lahore with dates under discussion for February or March celebrations.
Bhaijaan
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Pakistanis have no right to celebrate a festival from the Sanatani culture after their betrayal to this land. They should only celebrate festivals of musselmah culture.
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PA passes Kite Flying Bill 2025 with tough penalties
LAHORE:The Punjab Assembly on Wednesday passed the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Bill 2025 with a majority vote, introducing stringent punishments and heavy fines to regulate kite flying across the province in a bid to safeguard human life and property.
The new legislation imposes a complete ban on the use of metallic wire, nylon string, and chemically or glass-coated kite strings, commonly known as manjha, which have been blamed for numerous fatal accidents in the past.
The law also prescribes strict penalties for flying, manufacturing, storing, or selling kites and prohibited strings without official permission.
Under the bill, individuals found violating government regulations related to kite flying may face imprisonment ranging from three to five years, a fine of up to Rs2 million, or both.
Those involved in the manufacture, storage, or sale of kites and banned strings could be punished with five to seven years' imprisonment, a fine of up to Rs5 million, or both.
The offence has been declared non-bailable and cognizable, empowering law enforcement agencies to arrest suspects without a warrant.
Police officers of the rank of sub-inspector and above have been authorised to conduct searches and seize prohibited materials.
The government may also extend arrest and search powers to other departments through notification.
Special provisions have been included for cases involving minors.
Proceedings against children will be conducted under the Juvenile Justice System Act 2018. If a fine imposed on a minor is not paid, the amount may be recovered from parents or legal guardians as recoverable government dues.
The law grants Deputy Commissioners the authority to allow conditional kite flying on specific days and at designated locations, subject to strict safety measures.
During such permitted activities, safety arrangements for motorcyclists will be mandatory to prevent injuries caused by kite strings.
Registration has been made compulsory for the manufacture and sale of permitted kites and cotton strings.
Selling kites or permitted materials without registration may result in one to five years' imprisonment or a fine.
The bill also provides a formal mechanism for the registration of kite flying associations, with Deputy Commissioners empowered to cancel registrations in case of violations.
A right of appeal has been provided at multiple levels, including the Magistrate, Deputy Commissioner, and Commissioner.
Additionally, the legislation includes a provision to reward informers with up to Rs5,000 for reporting violations of the law.
Source: The Express Tribune
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Lahore admin asked to enforce kite law strictly
Commissioner Marryam Khan on Tuesday directed the district administration to ensure strict implementation of the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 regarding “Mehfooz Basant” (Safe Basant) in Lahore district.
She said a three-day “Safe Basant” will be held within the limits of Lahore district on Feb 6, 7, and 8, 2026. Kite flying is absolutely not allowed in Lahore district before Feb 6. She said the sale of kites and strings will be allowed only from Feb 1 to 8.
The commissioner said that under the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, no motorcycle without safety rods will be allowed on Lahore roads during the three-day “Safe Basant.”
The manufacturing of kite-flying material will be allowed only in Lahore district, other districts should crack down.
The commissioner also directed the nearby districts to crack down on kite flying in their areas. She said that all ACs must immediately crack down on it, there is no space for even zero negligence in the implementation of the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025.
A meeting regarding “Safe Basant” was held in Lahore with the commissioner in the chair.
She said online registration of kite and string manufacturers, traders, and sellers has been started on the e-Biz app.
Only registered manufacturers, traders, and sellers will be allowed to do business, while manufacturing and trading of permitted kite sizes and string types will be allowed until Feb 8.
Ms Khan said the notification of the Lahore district administration under the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 must be strictly implemented. Under the law, motorcycle riders will be required to install safety wires/rods. The use of kite-flying materials as prescribed in the ordinance and notification will be permitted. All registered manufacturers, traders and sellers will be required to display their certificates. Violation of the rules stipulated in the law will be subject to strict legal action.The meeting was attended by DIG Operations Lahore, CTO Lahore, DC, Director Development Lahore, all ACs and other officers.
Commissioner Marryam Khan on Tuesday directed the district administration to ensure strict implementation of the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 regarding “Mehfooz Basant” (Safe Basant) in Lahore district.
She said a three-day “Safe Basant” will be held within the limits of Lahore district on Feb 6, 7, and 8, 2026. Kite flying is absolutely not allowed in Lahore district before Feb 6. She said the sale of kites and strings will be allowed only from Feb 1 to 8.
The commissioner said that under the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, no motorcycle without safety rods will be allowed on Lahore roads during the three-day “Safe Basant.”
The manufacturing of kite-flying material will be allowed only in Lahore district, other districts should crack down.
The commissioner also directed the nearby districts to crack down on kite flying in their areas. She said that all ACs must immediately crack down on it, there is no space for even zero negligence in the implementation of the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025.
A meeting regarding “Safe Basant” was held in Lahore with the commissioner in the chair.
She said online registration of kite and string manufacturers, traders, and sellers has been started on the e-Biz app.
Only registered manufacturers, traders, and sellers will be allowed to do business, while manufacturing and trading of permitted kite sizes and string types will be allowed until Feb 8.
Ms Khan said the notification of the Lahore district administration under the Kite Flying Ordinance 2025 must be strictly implemented. Under the law, motorcycle riders will be required to install safety wires/rods. The use of kite-flying materials as prescribed in the ordinance and notification will be permitted. All registered manufacturers, traders and sellers will be required to display their certificates. Violation of the rules stipulated in the law will be subject to strict legal action.The meeting was attended by DIG Operations Lahore, CTO Lahore, DC, Director Development Lahore, all ACs and other officers.
Lahore admin asked to enforce kite law strictly
The manufacturing of kite-flying material will be allowed only in Lahore district.
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Punjab issues strict orders against kite flying, heavy penalties announced
LAHORE (Dunya News) - The Punjab Home Department has issued strict instructions for a crackdown on kite flying across the province.According to the department, the ban on kite manufacturing and kite flying remains in force in Punjab. Those found involved in kite flying will face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to Rs2 million. Meanwhile, individuals involved in manufacturing, selling, or transporting kites and kite strings will be punished with up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to Rs5 million.
The department further stated that limited permission for Basant celebrations in Lahore has been granted only for February 6, 7, and 8. Kite flying before the designated days and times will be considered illegal.
The Punjab Home Department warned that premature kite flying or kite manufacturing at any location poses a serious threat to human lives.
Source: Dunya News
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Punjab imposes curbs ahead of Basant kite festival’s return after 18-year hiatus
Punjab authorities have enforced Section 144 and imposed strict limits on kite materials and imagery ahead of the Basant kite-flying festival, which is set to return in Lahore next month for the first time since 2007 under tight safety and public-order conditions.
The move comes as the three-day Basant celebration — a traditional spring cultural festival marked by kite flying — is scheduled from Feb. 6 to 8 under the Punjab Kite Flying Act 2025, ending an 18-year hiatus after years of ban amid deadly accidents and safety concerns.
Basant, once a vibrant tradition signaling the arrival of spring with colorful kites and rooftop festivities, was outlawed in the mid-2000s after authorities linked metal-coated kite strings and celebratory gunfire to multiple deaths and injuries.
“A 30-day ban has been imposed under Section 144 on the manufacture, sale, purchase and use of kites bearing religious or political symbols or imagery,” the Punjab Home Department said in a statement.
“Kites displaying the image of any country’s flag or a political party’s flag will also be prohibited,” it added. “The manufacture, transportation, storage, sale and use of kites in violation of these restrictions have been declared punishable offenses.”
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure allows authorities to impose different kinds of restrictions to maintain public order and safety.
The statement highlighted “concerns that provocative elements could use religious or political symbols during Basant.”
It said that authorities have permitted only plain or multicolored kites during the event.
“The Punjab government has allowed Basant as a recreational festival under a ‘safe Basant’ framework,” the statement added. “No violations of the law will be permitted during Basant.”
www.arabnews.pk
Punjab authorities have enforced Section 144 and imposed strict limits on kite materials and imagery ahead of the Basant kite-flying festival, which is set to return in Lahore next month for the first time since 2007 under tight safety and public-order conditions.
The move comes as the three-day Basant celebration — a traditional spring cultural festival marked by kite flying — is scheduled from Feb. 6 to 8 under the Punjab Kite Flying Act 2025, ending an 18-year hiatus after years of ban amid deadly accidents and safety concerns.
Basant, once a vibrant tradition signaling the arrival of spring with colorful kites and rooftop festivities, was outlawed in the mid-2000s after authorities linked metal-coated kite strings and celebratory gunfire to multiple deaths and injuries.
“A 30-day ban has been imposed under Section 144 on the manufacture, sale, purchase and use of kites bearing religious or political symbols or imagery,” the Punjab Home Department said in a statement.
“Kites displaying the image of any country’s flag or a political party’s flag will also be prohibited,” it added. “The manufacture, transportation, storage, sale and use of kites in violation of these restrictions have been declared punishable offenses.”
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure allows authorities to impose different kinds of restrictions to maintain public order and safety.
The statement highlighted “concerns that provocative elements could use religious or political symbols during Basant.”
It said that authorities have permitted only plain or multicolored kites during the event.
“The Punjab government has allowed Basant as a recreational festival under a ‘safe Basant’ framework,” the statement added. “No violations of the law will be permitted during Basant.”
Australia arrive in Lahore for three-match T20I series against Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: The Australian cricket team arrived in the Pakistani city of Lahore on Wednesday ahead of a three-match men’s Twenty20 International series against the host nation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said. The first T20I will be played on Jan. 29, followed by the second on Jan. 31, with...
www.arabnews.pk
Good from maryam to allow this festival in lahore, under proper laws and regulatiobs
Now the onus is on the lahoris. If they abide by the laws by using normal thread and flying smaller kite, than we will see basant taking place in more cities.
It depends upon lahoris now. The lower and middle class has been the power to decide whether they want this festival to exist or not.
To be honest, knowing pakistani people, i think its gonna be a failiure, as we have people that will go for illegal threads that will lead to deaths and political parties will become active.
Have to say, maryam is doing political suicide here by bringing this festival back, especially since Sindh has been a dump and after the child death in sewar and the Gul plaza fire, all eyes will be on punjab to mess up. Recently a debate has started about punjab vs rest of pakistan in terms of development by Pmln...
Still maryam took the risk, and have to appreciate that.
Basant has been a non religious festival, enjoyed it as kids when it was allowed. I just hope the lahoris dont mess it up and act socially responsible
Now the onus is on the lahoris. If they abide by the laws by using normal thread and flying smaller kite, than we will see basant taking place in more cities.
It depends upon lahoris now. The lower and middle class has been the power to decide whether they want this festival to exist or not.
To be honest, knowing pakistani people, i think its gonna be a failiure, as we have people that will go for illegal threads that will lead to deaths and political parties will become active.
Have to say, maryam is doing political suicide here by bringing this festival back, especially since Sindh has been a dump and after the child death in sewar and the Gul plaza fire, all eyes will be on punjab to mess up. Recently a debate has started about punjab vs rest of pakistan in terms of development by Pmln...
Still maryam took the risk, and have to appreciate that.
Basant has been a non religious festival, enjoyed it as kids when it was allowed. I just hope the lahoris dont mess it up and act socially responsible
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Punjab imposes curbs ahead of Basant kite festival’s return after 18-year hiatus
Punjab authorities have enforced Section 144 and imposed strict limits on kite materials and imagery ahead of the Basant kite-flying festival, which is set to return in Lahore next month for the first time since 2007 under tight safety and public-order conditions.
The move comes as the three-day Basant celebration — a traditional spring cultural festival marked by kite flying — is scheduled from Feb. 6 to 8 under the Punjab Kite Flying Act 2025, ending an 18-year hiatus after years of ban amid deadly accidents and safety concerns.
Basant, once a vibrant tradition signaling the arrival of spring with colorful kites and rooftop festivities, was outlawed in the mid-2000s after authorities linked metal-coated kite strings and celebratory gunfire to multiple deaths and injuries.
“A 30-day ban has been imposed under Section 144 on the manufacture, sale, purchase and use of kites bearing religious or political symbols or imagery,” the Punjab Home Department said in a statement.
“Kites displaying the image of any country’s flag or a political party’s flag will also be prohibited,” it added. “The manufacture, transportation, storage, sale and use of kites in violation of these restrictions have been declared punishable offenses.”
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure allows authorities to impose different kinds of restrictions to maintain public order and safety.
The statement highlighted “concerns that provocative elements could use religious or political symbols during Basant.”
It said that authorities have permitted only plain or multicolored kites during the event.
“The Punjab government has allowed Basant as a recreational festival under a ‘safe Basant’ framework,” the statement added. “No violations of the law will be permitted during Basant.”
Australia arrive in Lahore for three-match T20I series against Pakistan
ISLAMABAD: The Australian cricket team arrived in the Pakistani city of Lahore on Wednesday ahead of a three-match men’s Twenty20 International series against the host nation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said. The first T20I will be played on Jan. 29, followed by the second on Jan. 31, with...
I want to retract from my post.
I just learned that the string that they are using for Basant is not going to be those fish lines or nylon lines, but its going to be cotton strings. However, a glass coating is being applied to it.
Glass coating is still dangerous. This is going to be a disaster, you heard it here first.
I think Maryam Nawaz has set herself up here and this is gonna come back crashing.
Had the strings only been cotton threads, that would had been good enough. But using glass coated cotton strings is still very dangerous.
Bhaijaan
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I used to sometimes fly kites with my friends and cousins on Basant.
Good good memories.
Nowadays I only see PM Modi doing that with distinguished guests.
Good good memories.
Nowadays I only see PM Modi doing that with distinguished guests.
SpiritOf1903
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Never heard of this pagan festival before.
Do Pakistani Punjabis celebrate baisakhi?
Do Pakistani Punjabis celebrate baisakhi?
KingKhanWC
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Its cultural, nobody starts worshiping Goats. Its pretty vibrant and fun.
The government and establishment clowns have banned PTI kites or faces of IK , the fear of IK is on another level.
Kianig89
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Reports a person died during Basant, as his kite got strangled in electric wires he felt.the jolt and breath his last, couple of people have neck slits from the thread/dour
SpiritOf1903
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No different to acknowledging Christmas in UK then...
I know kite flying is culture, this festival isn't
KingKhanWC
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No I wouldn't compare to Christmas which is still seen as a Christian event, even though its not. Its actually known as Sufi Basant, of course an innovation but its not Shirk. Hindus and Sikhs also take part. I believe it was banned for some years but revived again. Its not Islamic as per say but its hardly a big issue in the Muslim world. I would take Sufis over Wahabis every day.
SpiritOf1903
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That makes zero sense bruh
emranabbas
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Christmas is a religious festival for Christians. It has clear religious meaning and is connected to their faith.
Flying a kite, on the other hand, is just a hobby. It’s something people do for fun. It is not an act of worship and it is not connected to any religion, so calling it a pagan festival does not make sense.
DeadlyVenom
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The dour can be very dangerous but it is good fun overall.
Pagan? We are flying kites. Dont make everything religious
Funny how we have so called pakistanis here who have never heard of basant, but are quick enough to call it a pagan festival. So if u admot you never heard about this event why label it?
Bassnt is more than just flying kites. Its the roof top parties that every enjoys with music, food, dances, get to gather and kite flying offcourse.
Its like our version of spring break
Bassnt is more than just flying kites. Its the roof top parties that every enjoys with music, food, dances, get to gather and kite flying offcourse.
Its like our version of spring break
SpiritOf1903
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Christmas signifies the end of the year more than anything else despite its origin. Basant is a variation of Baisakhi
No it does not.
The stock market stays open from 27 onwards to the last weekday of December. Christmas has only further expanded due to marketing and branding of Coca Cola.
Basant has traditionally taken place near end of Janaury to start of february. How is it possibly related to Vaisakhi, when Vasakhi is a celebration of the Rabi crops harvesting which will Harvest by April. Vaisakhi ends up being in April.
Basant has always been celebrated in Punjab, it has nothing to do with religion, its a spring festival/spring break type event.
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Famous but deadly kite flying festival returns after 19-year ban
In the streets of Lahore there are hints that the kite flying festival, Basant, has returned. Someone is fishing a kite from electricity cables, the distant sound of a drum beat, a flash of neon when you look up in the walled city's narrow streets to a stretch of sky. This party is above.
As the sun sets across the city, on every rooftop we can see families and friends, laughing, shouting, watching as kites zig zag, circle, and soar through the city's skies.
"It's really difficult!" Abu Bakar Ahmad tells me.
The 25-year-old tech engineer has been coached by his cousin, coaxing the kite higher and higher with a twitch of the string.
"All our generations here are very excited; the elders know how to fly a kite, but we Gen-Zers don't know."
The festival has returned after nearly two decades. Marking the start of spring, it dates back centuries, but was banned in 2007 after several years of injuries and fatalities caused by sharp kite strings, falls and aerial firing.
It means for many this is their first time flying; they've never seen the skies above Lahore like this. Others are practicing the skill after years.
"It's gathering, it's love. Flying kites is ok, but the main thing is bonding," Kanwal Amin, 48, tells me. "I like watching and eating good food."
Kashif Siddiqui is a pharmacist, but admits his kite flying is a bit rusty. He shows me pictures of his last Basant - then Kashif's son was three. Now his son is here with his own children.
"It's special for Lahori's - this runs in our blood. It's not about kite and thread, it's about tradition. My father and his father before him used to do it."
Kashif's aunt, Mina Sikander, 60, is here from Miami; she didn't want to miss out.
"I'm very fond of this festival," she says. "It was worth the journey!"
Kite flying is not just about beauty, it's about the battle to knock your opponent's kite out of the sky by cutting their string.
That led to ever sharper, stronger threads, some coated in powdered glass, others made from metal or chemical material that would not break.
Each festival there were deaths, including of children. It was particularly dangerous for motorcyclists who could inadvertently drive into a thread draped across a road, cutting their throats.
Celebratory aerial firing and falls from rooftops also caused injuries and fatalities.
In a bid to try to make the festival safer, it's now been limited to only three days.
Motorcyclists have been given metal rods, sticking up between their handlebars, to stop any threads they drive into from becoming tied around their necks.
Large kites are banned because they require a stronger string and create a bigger risk the authorities say.
Nets have been placed over certain streets; in previous years metal kite strings have fallen on to electricity wires giving an electric shock to anyone holding them - and causing the wires to short circuit.
Faisal Kamran, Deputy Inspector General of Lahore Police, shows us some of more than 100,000 kites and 2,100 rolls of string he says his team seized.
His officers are monitoring the skies and rooftops through drones, officers watching in person and repositioned CCTV cameras.
"All these cameras were covering our main roads," he says pointing to images now looking across Lahore's rooftops. "We have a good view just to keep a check on activities like if somebody is using that banned material or weapons."
He says the cameras will be turned back to the roads when Basant is over.
Many are hoping the measures are a success, not least the Punjab government who decided to bring Basant back and have been promoting it.
In the narrow streets of Mochi gate, customers hold their paper kites overhead to stop them getting ripped as they squeeze through the crowd and past the occasional slow moving motorbike.
Usman, one of the kite sellers, tells me he's sold more than 7000 kites in just a few days.
Yousaf Salahuddin has been one of the festival's key supporters and advocates for decades.
In the 1980s he hosted the glitterati of Pakistan at the festival and invited the media to cover it to raise its profile. He says it makes a financial difference to the city too.
"There was a lot of revenue," Yousaf says. "And that revenue was going down to the poorest - the vendors on the street, the restaurants in the old city, the people who dyed the clothes, the people who were selling shoes, bangles, everything.
"And then the hotels were all booked, there were extra flights coming in."
His first memories of the festival date back to before he was old enough to fly kites, when instead he would rush across the rooftops to catch the kites whose strings had been cut.
Yousaf felt emotional seeing them back in Lahore's skies in such numbers for the first time this weekend.
"It's always been a part of us, I don't remember the city without kites," he says.
That doesn't mean he wants to fly them though.
"I don't have the patience, I flew one last night and it got cut," Yousaf says. "So I said, 'I'm not flying anymore - I'm done!'"
BBC
In the streets of Lahore there are hints that the kite flying festival, Basant, has returned. Someone is fishing a kite from electricity cables, the distant sound of a drum beat, a flash of neon when you look up in the walled city's narrow streets to a stretch of sky. This party is above.
As the sun sets across the city, on every rooftop we can see families and friends, laughing, shouting, watching as kites zig zag, circle, and soar through the city's skies.
"It's really difficult!" Abu Bakar Ahmad tells me.
The 25-year-old tech engineer has been coached by his cousin, coaxing the kite higher and higher with a twitch of the string.
"All our generations here are very excited; the elders know how to fly a kite, but we Gen-Zers don't know."
The festival has returned after nearly two decades. Marking the start of spring, it dates back centuries, but was banned in 2007 after several years of injuries and fatalities caused by sharp kite strings, falls and aerial firing.
It means for many this is their first time flying; they've never seen the skies above Lahore like this. Others are practicing the skill after years.
"It's gathering, it's love. Flying kites is ok, but the main thing is bonding," Kanwal Amin, 48, tells me. "I like watching and eating good food."
Kashif Siddiqui is a pharmacist, but admits his kite flying is a bit rusty. He shows me pictures of his last Basant - then Kashif's son was three. Now his son is here with his own children.
"It's special for Lahori's - this runs in our blood. It's not about kite and thread, it's about tradition. My father and his father before him used to do it."
Kashif's aunt, Mina Sikander, 60, is here from Miami; she didn't want to miss out.
"I'm very fond of this festival," she says. "It was worth the journey!"
Kite flying is not just about beauty, it's about the battle to knock your opponent's kite out of the sky by cutting their string.
That led to ever sharper, stronger threads, some coated in powdered glass, others made from metal or chemical material that would not break.
Each festival there were deaths, including of children. It was particularly dangerous for motorcyclists who could inadvertently drive into a thread draped across a road, cutting their throats.
Celebratory aerial firing and falls from rooftops also caused injuries and fatalities.
In a bid to try to make the festival safer, it's now been limited to only three days.
Motorcyclists have been given metal rods, sticking up between their handlebars, to stop any threads they drive into from becoming tied around their necks.
Large kites are banned because they require a stronger string and create a bigger risk the authorities say.
Nets have been placed over certain streets; in previous years metal kite strings have fallen on to electricity wires giving an electric shock to anyone holding them - and causing the wires to short circuit.
Faisal Kamran, Deputy Inspector General of Lahore Police, shows us some of more than 100,000 kites and 2,100 rolls of string he says his team seized.
His officers are monitoring the skies and rooftops through drones, officers watching in person and repositioned CCTV cameras.
"All these cameras were covering our main roads," he says pointing to images now looking across Lahore's rooftops. "We have a good view just to keep a check on activities like if somebody is using that banned material or weapons."
He says the cameras will be turned back to the roads when Basant is over.
Many are hoping the measures are a success, not least the Punjab government who decided to bring Basant back and have been promoting it.
In the narrow streets of Mochi gate, customers hold their paper kites overhead to stop them getting ripped as they squeeze through the crowd and past the occasional slow moving motorbike.
Usman, one of the kite sellers, tells me he's sold more than 7000 kites in just a few days.
Yousaf Salahuddin has been one of the festival's key supporters and advocates for decades.
In the 1980s he hosted the glitterati of Pakistan at the festival and invited the media to cover it to raise its profile. He says it makes a financial difference to the city too.
"There was a lot of revenue," Yousaf says. "And that revenue was going down to the poorest - the vendors on the street, the restaurants in the old city, the people who dyed the clothes, the people who were selling shoes, bangles, everything.
"And then the hotels were all booked, there were extra flights coming in."
His first memories of the festival date back to before he was old enough to fly kites, when instead he would rush across the rooftops to catch the kites whose strings had been cut.
Yousaf felt emotional seeing them back in Lahore's skies in such numbers for the first time this weekend.
"It's always been a part of us, I don't remember the city without kites," he says.
That doesn't mean he wants to fly them though.
"I don't have the patience, I flew one last night and it got cut," Yousaf says. "So I said, 'I'm not flying anymore - I'm done!'"
BBC
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118 ‘Basant accidents’ reported so far
Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi has appealed to the Lahorites to play their due role in making the Basant 2026 safe as more and more cases of people falling from rooftops while catching stray kites are being reported.
The home department’s control room has received some 118 Basant-related accidents cases, including six casualties, during the first two days of the festival till filing of this report. The six casualties included four incidents of falling from rooftops and one each when young boys tried to climb an electric pole and a tree to catch kites. About 112 injuries occurred due to twine.
In a video message released on Saturday, Dr Qazi said the government was taking measures to ensure that the three-day Basant be celebrated with complete safety. He said, police, traffic police, district administration, Rescue 1122, health and all relevant departments were actively performing their duties.
“The government has ensured implementation of all safety measures and protocols, including installation of safety rods on all motorcycles,” he added.
DAWN NEWS
Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi has appealed to the Lahorites to play their due role in making the Basant 2026 safe as more and more cases of people falling from rooftops while catching stray kites are being reported.
The home department’s control room has received some 118 Basant-related accidents cases, including six casualties, during the first two days of the festival till filing of this report. The six casualties included four incidents of falling from rooftops and one each when young boys tried to climb an electric pole and a tree to catch kites. About 112 injuries occurred due to twine.
In a video message released on Saturday, Dr Qazi said the government was taking measures to ensure that the three-day Basant be celebrated with complete safety. He said, police, traffic police, district administration, Rescue 1122, health and all relevant departments were actively performing their duties.
“The government has ensured implementation of all safety measures and protocols, including installation of safety rods on all motorcycles,” he added.
DAWN NEWS
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Basant: Lahore sets new record for vehicle entries over three days
Lahore set a new record during the three-day Basant festival as nearly 900,000 vehicles entered the city. Over the two days of celebrations, about 1.4 million passengers traveled on government-run buses and other public transport, marking unprecedented usage, ARY News reported.
According to reports, the extraordinary crowd was seen across the city on Orange Line, Metrobus, Feeder Buses, and Electrobuses, reflecting the high enthusiasm for Basant.
A special video link meeting was held under the supervision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, where senior ministers and officials briefed her on transport, health, and security arrangements during the festival.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb presented a two-day report on Basant, showing that over 600,000 passengers used the Orange Line Metro Train in two days. On Friday, 299,000 passengers traveled, while Saturday saw 305,000 commuters on the line.
Metrobus services carried a total of 278,000 passengers, with 143,000 on Friday and 135,000 on Saturday.
Speedo feeder buses transported 357,000 passengers in two days, while Electrobuses on feeder routes served 30,000 citizens. Regional Transport Authority buses carried 60,000 passengers, and Green Electrobuses provided free rides to 52,000 people over two days.
A total of 419 buses were available for free travel on the last day of Basant, and the Orange Line Metro Train continued its service through the night.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and security measures during Basant, appreciating the cooperation of citizens in maintaining order.
She emphasized that despite the festivities, restrictions on kite flying would remain in place at the end of the festival and instructed officials to strictly enforce safety protocols.
Today, free travel will continue on Metrobus, feeder buses, and Green Buses, as well as on 6,000 online service rickshaws. Authorities urged residents to continue following safety SOPs, showing responsibility on the final day of Basant celebrations.
Officials confirmed that the coordination between health, police, traffic, and transport departments helped manage the massive crowds effectively, making this year’s Basant a record-breaking yet safe celebration.
arynews.tv
Lahore set a new record during the three-day Basant festival as nearly 900,000 vehicles entered the city. Over the two days of celebrations, about 1.4 million passengers traveled on government-run buses and other public transport, marking unprecedented usage, ARY News reported.
According to reports, the extraordinary crowd was seen across the city on Orange Line, Metrobus, Feeder Buses, and Electrobuses, reflecting the high enthusiasm for Basant.
A special video link meeting was held under the supervision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, where senior ministers and officials briefed her on transport, health, and security arrangements during the festival.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb presented a two-day report on Basant, showing that over 600,000 passengers used the Orange Line Metro Train in two days. On Friday, 299,000 passengers traveled, while Saturday saw 305,000 commuters on the line.
Metrobus services carried a total of 278,000 passengers, with 143,000 on Friday and 135,000 on Saturday.
Speedo feeder buses transported 357,000 passengers in two days, while Electrobuses on feeder routes served 30,000 citizens. Regional Transport Authority buses carried 60,000 passengers, and Green Electrobuses provided free rides to 52,000 people over two days.
A total of 419 buses were available for free travel on the last day of Basant, and the Orange Line Metro Train continued its service through the night.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and security measures during Basant, appreciating the cooperation of citizens in maintaining order.
She emphasized that despite the festivities, restrictions on kite flying would remain in place at the end of the festival and instructed officials to strictly enforce safety protocols.
Today, free travel will continue on Metrobus, feeder buses, and Green Buses, as well as on 6,000 online service rickshaws. Authorities urged residents to continue following safety SOPs, showing responsibility on the final day of Basant celebrations.
Officials confirmed that the coordination between health, police, traffic, and transport departments helped manage the massive crowds effectively, making this year’s Basant a record-breaking yet safe celebration.
Basant: Lahore sets new record for vehicle entries over three days
Lahore's Basant festival saw nearly 900,000 vehicles entering the city, showcasing immense enthusiasm for the celebrations.
Basant cones from Basanth/Vasanth Panchami which is a Hindu festival in veneration of Goddess Saraswati and invitation of Spring in subcontinent. It is celebrated by Flying kites, wearing yellow clothes and eating yellow colored food and sweets.
Good to see Pakistan celebrating their ancestral festivals. Poor Asim Munir must be very unhappy with these celebrations. He believed that Pak has nothing in common with Indians.
Good to see Pakistan celebrating their ancestral festivals. Poor Asim Munir must be very unhappy with these celebrations. He believed that Pak has nothing in common with Indians.
Dude, it is a Hindu festival. Your forefathers used to Celebrate it before Islam arrived in the land of Pakistan. Goddess Saraswati is worshipped and people fly kites to welcome spring.
These festivals are Hindu aka Pagan. You can call it cultural or twist it to make yourself feel better about celebrating a Hindu festival. Facts are facts.
I dont know hwo this was celebrated 1200 years ago.Dude, it is a Hindu festival. Your forefathers used to Celebrate it before Islam arrived in the land of Pakistan. Goddess Saraswati is worshipped and people fly kites to welcome spring.
These festivals are Hindu aka Pagan. You can call it cultural or twist it to make yourself feel better about celebrating a Hindu festival. Facts are facts.
We celebrate it with flyinf kites, music and food.
No sarasvati is worshipped over here.
Rafale Nidhal Fan
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Should stay banned
Basant Panchami is a Hindu festival. You can believe whatever you want. Facts are facts.
adi_62941
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Historically, it marked the transition from very cold to warm weather. People used to fly colourful kites to welcome warm weather which is a identity of our land. We are a people of warm land especially punjab. Its nothing to do with any religion.
Red-Indian
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It's never so black and white. A lot of these festivals were even pre-Hindu. Even ancient civilizations had celebrations connected with the harvest, solstices etc. Of course most religions adopted them in some form or the other as festivals - Christmas is one example. That's why it's not clear whether they're religious or not.Dude, it is a Hindu festival. Your forefathers used to Celebrate it before Islam arrived in the land of Pakistan. Goddess Saraswati is worshipped and people fly kites to welcome spring.
These festivals are Hindu aka Pagan. You can call it cultural or twist it to make yourself feel better about celebrating a Hindu festival. Facts are facts.
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