The Punjab government on Friday unveiled new rules and regulations for kite-flying during next year’s anticipated Basant festival, setting Dec. 30 as the deadline for their full implementation.
Under the new rules, kite-flying would be permitted solely on structurally strong and secure rooftops with boundary walls at least three-and-a-half feet high. Overcrowding on rooftops is strictly prohibited. Additionally, the rules calls for parents and guardians to ensure continuous supervision of children and bar them from rooftop edges.
In a statement, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif stressed the need to ensure children’s safety, warning running, jumping, hanging from edges, and aggressively retrieving kites is strictly prohibited. The new rules also ban the use of loud music, DJ systems, and noise-generating devices during kite-flying, declaring any activity causing disturbance to neighbors a punishable offense under the law.
The rules also make mandatory the availability of first aid kits at all kite-flying locations, with citizens urged to immediately contact Rescue 1122 in case of any accident or emergency. They warn that any accident or violation of law would be the responsibility of building owners and event organizers, with the chief minister emphasizing strict legal action against all violators.
In her statement, Nawaz directed all deputy commissioners and district police officers to ensure complete implementation of the regulations. She also appreciated citizens for adhering to safety measures during this year’s Basant and expressed confidence that similar compliance would be observed next year.