The Basant Lahore kite incidents have resulted in one death and at least five injuries as the historic spring festival returned to the city after authorities lifted a ban that had remained in place for more than two decades.
Rescue officials confirmed on Friday that a 25-year-old man, identified as Ali Rasheed, died after being electrocuted near the Sikh Canal in Baghbanpura. He had climbed an electric pole to retrieve a stray kite and accidentally touched live wires. Despite emergency efforts, he could not be saved.
Meanwhile, several others were hurt in separate accidents linked to kite strings and retrieval attempts. In Gulshan Ravi, 45-year-old Shabbir suffered injuries when a string became entangled around him. Additionally, a young boy named Rafay was injured in Defence Phase 5 under similar circumstances.
Authorities also reported that an eight-year-old girl, Irsa, sustained neck injuries after a kite string tightened around her. Elsewhere, two boys — 12-year-old Abdul Wahid and 14-year-old Salman — were wounded while trying to recover stray kites from difficult locations, including a tree and an area along Lower Mall.
Rescue teams responded quickly and transported the injured to nearby hospitals. Officials said prompt medical assistance helped prevent more serious outcomes.
The Basant festival began shortly after midnight on Thursday and is scheduled to continue through February 8. Provincial authorities allowed the celebrations to resume with strict safety rules designed to reduce long-standing risks associated with kite flying.
The Punjab government prohibited metallic wire and nylon strings, both considered hazardous. In addition, motorcyclists were required to install safety rods to protect riders from sharp strings stretched across roads.
To strengthen emergency readiness, the Lahore deputy commissioner formed quick response teams in every tehsil. These units are responsible for monitoring activities and reacting swiftly to incidents during the festivities.
Police presence has also been significantly expanded. According to a Lahore Police spokesperson, more than 10,000 officers are deployed across the city. Checkpoints operate in multiple zones, including 104 in the Red Zone, 92 in the Yellow Zone, and 72 in the Green Zone. Officers have also been stationed on rooftops, bridges, underpasses, and major entry points.
Traffic authorities assigned around 1,300 personnel to manage congestion and ensure safer movement. During enforcement operations, police arrested 44 motorcyclists who failed to install mandatory safety rods, and cases were registered against them.
Although the revival of the festival has generated excitement, the Basant Lahore kite incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns. Officials continue to urge residents to follow regulations so that celebrations can proceed without further harm.