The Punjab government has formally revoked its long-standing prohibition on kite flying. Governor Pujab has signed a new ordinance granting this conditional permission. This move marks the return of Basant celebrations after a quarter-century. The new regulatory framework prioritises public safety while reviving a cultural tradition.
The ordinance outlines specific and enforceable rules. It prohibits individuals under 18 from flying kites and holds their guardians financially and legally accountable for any violations. Furthermore, the law strictly limits the thread to traditional cotton material. It explicitly bans the manufacture, sale, or use of metallic, chemical-coated, or sharp-edged string (Manjha), which has historically caused serious injuries.
To ensure accountability, the government is implementing a digital tracking system. The rules require the public to purchase all kites from vendors registered with the district administration. Each kite will carry a unique QR code identifying its seller. The law also mandates registration for thread manufacturers. Furthermore, all kite flying associations must register with their respective Deputy Commissioner’s office to operate legally.
Basant Returns But with Safety First. 🪁
Punjab’s Kite-Flying Ordinance 2025 makes registration mandatory for kite sellers and manufacturers. Violations carry heavy fines and jail time. Children under 18 cannot fly kites. Every kite and vendor now traceable via QR codes.… pic.twitter.com/qrouEoidhd
— Government of Punjab (@GovtofPunjabPK) December 3, 2025The ordinance establishes severe legal consequences to deter unsafe practices. General breaches of the law, particularly the use of a banned thread, can result in imprisonment for three to five years and fines of up to PKR 2 million. For offences involving minors, guardians will face a fine of PKR 50,000 for the first violation, increasing to PKR 100,000 for a second offence. Authorities will initiate legal action against guardians who fail to pay these fines.
Punjab authorities imposed a blanket ban on kite flying in 2001 after numerous fatalities and injuries from hazardous threads. The conditional lifting of this ban after 25 years represents a significant policy shift.
