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LAHORE:
A miscellaneous petition was filed in the Lahore High Court (LHC) by advocate Azhar Siddique, challenging the notification allowing kite flying activities on February 6, 7 and 8.
The petitioner argued that the notification posed a serious threat to public safety. It has been highlighted that a girl and a youth were recently seriously injured in separate incidents involving kite strings, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with the practice.
The petition further contends that in the past, many precious lives have been lost due to kite string incidents, despite existing bans and safety concerns.
The petitioner requested the court to direct withdrawal of the impugned notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner.
It was also requested that the court suspend notification until final judgment on the main motion, in the interest of public safety.
The Lahore district administration on Monday formally approved the conditional revival of Basant in 2026, allowing kite flying as part of a comprehensive set of safety regulations aimed at protecting lives while restoring one of the city’s most famous cultural traditions.
On February 6, 7 and 8, 2026, Deputy Commissioner of Lahore, Syed Musa Raza, issued an official notification allowing Basant celebrations within the district limits. The move marked a significant policy shift after years of restrictions, with authorities emphasizing that the festival would only go ahead under strict enforcement of safety laws and regulatory oversight.
According to the notification, flying of kites would be permitted exclusively during the designated three days, while manufacturing, trade and sale of approved kite flying equipment would be regulated through a mandatory registration system. Manufacturers, traders and sellers must complete digital registration through the e-Biz app or the official portal basant.punjab.gov.pk, with the registration process already underway.
