After nearly two decades, the traditional kite-flying festival is making a controlled comeback, with authorities rolling out clear rules on registration, fees, licensing, and public safety to prevent past tragedies.
Basant Dates and Scope
Punjab has confirmed that Basant will be held only in Lahore this year, with no celebrations allowed elsewhere in the province. The decision was approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif following a high-level meeting chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. Officials said the limited scope will help authorities closely monitor the event and ensure full enforcement of safety laws.
Registration Process and Fees
The Lahore district administration has announced mandatory registration for all stakeholders involved in Basant activities:
- Kite makers and string manufacturers: Registration fee Rs 1,000
- Kite Flying Associations: Registration fee Rs 5,000
For registration:
- Form A will be used for kite and string manufacturers
- Form B will be issued as an official registration certificate
- Forms C and D are designated for Kite Flying Associations
Only licensed and registered individuals will be allowed to manufacture, sell, or organize kite flying during the festival.
Also Read: Punjab government confirms dates of Basant festival in Lahore
Strict Safety Rules and Monitoring
To ensure public safety, the Punjab government has enforced strict regulations:
- QR codes will be mandatory on all approved kites
- Metallic, chemical-coated, or sharp strings are completely banned
- Kite strings will only be produced at designated sites under government supervision
- Mandatory safety rods must be installed on motorcycles
- Traffic police will distribute free safety antennas to motorcyclists during Basant
Deputy commissioners have been instructed to oversee registered associations and ensure no banned materials enter the supply chain.
Also Read: Lahore set for three-day Basant with strict safety rules
Penalties for Violations
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari warned that violations will not be tolerated. Anyone found manufacturing or selling prohibited kite string may face:
- Three to five years imprisonment
- Fines up to Rs 2 million
- Cancellation of registration and legal action
She stressed that Basant will be “completely safe, regulated, and strictly monitored,” adding that responsible public behavior could allow the festival to expand to other cities in future years.
Cultural Revival Under Control
Alongside kite flying, the Information and Culture Department will organize cultural events featuring music and traditional food to revive Lahore’s heritage. Officials said the aim is to restore the city’s cultural identity while ensuring the festival does not become hazardous again, as it was before the ban imposed in 2007.
This year’s Basant marks the first official celebration under the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025, signaling a cautious but symbolic revival of one of Lahore’s most iconic traditions.
