Punjab bans kite flying across province under new law

LAHORE: The Punjab Assembly has taken a step ahead for public safety through the passing of the amended Kite Flying Prohibition Act 2024, which called for an absolute ban on kite flying across the province. 

Any engagement in kite flying, kite manufacture, or the transit of kite-related materials is absolutely prohibited by this new law, and those found guilty will face harsh penalties.

Anyone caught flying a kite faces a maximum fine of Rs2 million, 3 to 5 years in prison, or both. More severe punishments, such as 5–7 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs5 million, or both, would be imposed on individuals who manufacture or transport kites.

A punishment of Rs50,000 for the first infraction and Rs100,000 for the second will also be imposed on minors who fly kites. Those who manufacture, sell, or transport kites are also subject to fines under the law, which can range from 500,000 to 5 million

Sharp kite strings have been taking so many precious lives, and the newly drafted law is an urgent response to such tragic occurrences. PML-N MPA Hina Parvez Butt, through a resolution, drew the attention of the House towards the growing incidents of stray kite strings in the province and called upon it to declare kite and string-making as non-bailable offenses. 

The new law aimed to save human lives and ensure that such incidents would not recur in the future by enforcing a comprehensive ban.