To ensure public safety during the Basant festival, Rawalpindi Police have banned motorcycle access across all flyovers as a part of broader safety measures adopted in Punjab over concerns about the dangers posed by kite strings during the festivities.
Authorities have specifically identified flyovers on Murree Road, Airport Road, and other areas within Rawalpindi as off-limits to motorcyclists for Basant. In parallel efforts to uphold law and order, the police have apprehended several individuals across the city for engaging in aerial firing as part of Basant celebrations.
The crackdown on illicit activities associated with the Basant festival continues, with numerous arrests in various districts. The police and district administration are actively working to ensure a peaceful and orderly celebration across the province.
In a related development, Punjab Police have proposed more stringent penalties for kite flying, recommending imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of Rs2 million for those manufacturing or flying kites with banned materials. This represents a significant increase from the previous penalties of one year’s imprisonment and a Rs500,000 fine.
The recommendation addresses the risks associated with kite flying, including using hazardous materials in kite strings. Additionally, there has been a legislative effort at the national level seeking to enforce a complete prohibition on kite flying within the federal capital, reflecting the serious concerns regarding safety and public order during such celebrations.
