LAHORE:
The Punjab government has officially replaced its decades-old ban on kite flying with a new, tougher law, ending the blanket approach and introducing a tightly regulated regime aimed at enforcing strict public safety controls.
The provincial cabinet approved the new legislation, which declares unauthorized kite flying a criminal offense and grants broad enforcement powers to police and district authorities.
According to the new law, flying of kites will be allowed only with the prior approval of the district administration and strictly in designated areas. The use, manufacture, storage, transportation or sale of chemically treated nylon or metal ropes has been banned, with violations carrying heavy penalties. Officials say the revised framework was designed to address long-standing safety risks associated with kite flying, particularly fatal accidents involving motorcyclists and pedestrians.
The legislation introduces mandatory registration for manufacturers and sellers of kites and strings, making unregistered production or sale a punishable offense that can lead to cancellation of registration and legal action. Police officers, whose rank is not lower than that specified in the law, were empowered to carry out searches, seize materials and make arrests without a warrant.
All kite flying offenses have been declared cognizable and non-bailable, ensuring speedy prosecution.
The sanctions provided for by the new law are significantly more severe than those provided for under the old regime. Individuals caught using illegal or dangerous wire face a prison sentence of five to seven years, as well as heavy fines. Separate penalties apply to those involved in the manufacture or trade of prohibited materials, while juvenile offenders will be dealt with under the juvenile justice system, with fines recoverable from parents or guardians in the event of non-payment.
The previous law, the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying Ordinance, 2001, imposed a near-total ban on kite flying across the province, criminalizing the activity largely due to repeated fatal incidents. Although amended several times over the years, including limited provisions that once controlled kite flying during the spring season, the ordinance has been criticized for weak enforcement and ambiguity. The new legislation removes these exemptions and replaces them with a comprehensive regulatory structure supported by stricter sanctions and clearer administrative oversight.
Government officials say the revised law reflects a shift from a ban to controlled regulation, with public safety as the primary goal. Particular emphasis has been placed on protecting motorcyclists, who have historically been most vulnerable to injury from the sharp strings of kites. Authorities maintain that the intention is not to suppress cultural expression but to ensure that any permitted activity does not endanger lives.
The law came into force with immediate effect and provincial authorities ordered law enforcement agencies to begin its implementation without delay. Officials warned that there would be zero tolerance for violations.
IT city
The cabinet also decided to build the second largest information technology (IT) city in the province in Rawalpindi.
The firm has set itself the objective of training 2,300 young qualified professionals in one year.
Chairing the cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif ordered that every department be required to conduct an inquiry against the employees within three months.
The cabinet approved the installation of modern traffic lights. The CM ordered marking of pedestrian crossings on every road and immediate filling of potholes.
The cabinet decided to create an independent review authority.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has increased the allowance of government school principals from Rs500 to Rs10,000.
The firm has set itself the goal of exporting livestock by establishing a breeding business. A reward of Rs100,000 was also announced for traffic cops who follow traffic rules.
The CM congratulated Agriculture Minister Ashiq Kirmani and his team for achieving the wheat cultivation target earlier than other provinces. The cabinet approved a policy of paying honoraria to mosque imams. The easing of restrictions on temporary recruitment in various medical institutions was approved.
