Punjab allows conditional kite flying, issues ordinance

Lahore: The Punjab government has issued an ordinance granting conditional permission for kite flying.

The ordinance, signed by Punjab Governor Salim Haider, allows the celebration of Basant under specific conditions. It also prescribes penalties of imprisonment and fines for violations.

According to the ordinance, kite flying had been banned in Punjab in 2001. After 25 years, the activity has been permitted again; however, children under 18 will not be allowed to fly kites. In case of violation, the parents or guardians will be held responsible.

The ordinance states that only string made of plain thread may be used for flying kites. The use of metallic or sharp, chemically-coated string is strictly prohibited and will carry severe penalties— a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 5 years imprisonment, along with a fine of up to 2 million rupees. Within each district, all motorcycles must also be operated in accordance with designated safety measures.

The ordinance further authorizes the search of any suspicious location or premises, and declares the offence non-bailable. For children under 18, a fine of 50,000 rupees will be imposed for the first violation and 100,000 rupees for the second. Failure to pay the fine will result in action against the parents or guardians. All kite-flying associations will be registered with the district’s Deputy Commissioner.

Additionally, kites may only be purchased from registered vendors. Each registered shop will be linked to a QR code, and every kite will also bear a QR code to identify the seller. Manufacturers of kite string will likewise be registered and identifiable through QR codes.