• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

The Punjab Assembly has approved the amended Kite Flying Prohibition Act 2024, introducing a province-wide ban on kite flying and related activities. This legislation aims to address the dangers associated with kite flying, especially the use of sharp and dangerous materials such as metallic wires and nylon strings.

Under the new law, strict penalties have been set for violations. Individuals caught flying kites may face 3 to 5 years of imprisonment, along with fines up to Rs 5 million (25,00,000 INR), or both. For those involved in the manufacturing or transportation of kites, the penalties are even more severe—ranging from 5 to 7 years in prison, with fines up to Rs 5 million, or both. Additionally, minors found participating in kite flying will face fines of Rs 50,000 (15,541 INR)  for the first offence and Rs 100,000 (50,000 INR) for the second offence.

ALSO READ: Is Elon Musk's New X Video Tab An Answer To TikTok Amid Its Uncertain Future?

Kite Flying Prohibition Impact On Basant Festival

The ban covers not only kites but also metallic wires, nylon strings, and all sharp threads used in kite flying. This move follows a tragic incident in 2005 in Lahore, the provincial capital, where at least 11 bystanders were fatally injured by metal or glass-coated strings during kite-flying competitions. Such incidents highlighted the life-threatening risks associated with kite flying, leading to the initial imposition of a ban in Lahore.

The centuries-old Basant festival, traditionally celebrated with vibrant kite-flying competitions as spring approaches, has been significantly affected by this ban. Basant, meaning "yellow" in Hindi, represents the season of blooming yellow flowers. The sight of thousands of kites soaring into the sky has become a traditional feature of this festival, but safety concerns have overshadowed this joyous occasion.

ALSO READ: US President Donald Trump Mandates Full-Time Office Return For Federal Workers

The recent amendments are a step towards ensuring public safety by eliminating the risks posed by dangerous kite-flying practices. With stricter enforcement and hefty penalties, the government aims to discourage the use of materials that endanger lives and disrupt public safety.