Authorities in Punjab, Pakistan have imposed a ban on kite flying in areas surrounding Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport, effective from midnight Thursday through midnight on February 8th. The measure is intended to ensure the safety of flight operations during the Basant festival, a celebration marking the arrival of spring.
Restrictions and Safety Concerns
The ban, issued by the Punjab Home Department, applies to take-off and landing zones, specifically including Nadarabad, Gulshan Ali Colony, Nishat Colony, Bhatta Chowk, and DHA Lahore Blocks P, Q, R, and S. Restrictions also extend to aircraft take-off routes near Alfaisal Town, Jodhe Pul, Tajpura, and the adjacent Canal Bank Road areas.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) recommended the ban, and has also issued an alert to pilots advising extra caution during approach and take-off due to expected heavy kite flying at low altitudes. This comes as Basant returns to Lahore after a years-long absence, following a blanket ban imposed in 2007 due to safety concerns.
A History of Risk
Historically, Basant celebrations in Pakistan’s Punjab have been marred by accidents and fatalities linked to celebratory gunfire, dangerous kite strings coated in glass or metal, and falls from rooftops. These incidents led to the 2007 ban, which remained in place until the recent promulgation of the Punjab Kite Flying Ordinance 2025.
This year’s celebrations are limited to the city of Lahore and are subject to unprecedented restrictions. Only cotton string, wound into ‘pinna’ forms with QR codes for traceability, is permitted. Violations of the ordinance can result in prison terms of up to five years and fines of up to Rs2 million.
Preparations and Logistics
The Punjab government has also taken steps to facilitate the festival, including providing free public transport and approving historic rooftops for kite flying – some rented for as much as Rs5.5 million. Extensive food and beverage arrangements have been made for both residents and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are affected by the kite flying ban?
The ban applies to areas surrounding Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, including Nadarabad, Gulshan Ali Colony, Nishat Colony, Bhatta Chowk, DHA Lahore Blocks P, Q, R, and S, as well as routes near Alfaisal Town, Jodhe Pul, and Tajpura.
When is the ban in effect?
The ban is in effect from midnight on Thursday until midnight on February 8th.
What types of kite strings are prohibited?
Nylon, plastic, chemical-coated, and glass-coated strings, as well as metallic wire and spools, are completely banned. Only cotton string wound into ‘pinna’ forms with QR codes is permitted.
As Basant celebrations begin, it remains to be seen how effectively these new regulations will be enforced and whether they will successfully balance the desire to revive a cherished tradition with the paramount need to ensure public safety.
