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Punjab Bans Kite Flying with Harsh Penalties Under New Law
Punjab Assembly enacts a complete ban on kite flying, imposing up to 7 years of imprisonment and hefty fines to prevent fatalities caused by sharp kite strings.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-21
Punjab Bans Kite Flying with Harsh Penalties Under New Law

The Punjab Assembly on Tuesday approved the Punjab Prohibition of Kite Flying (Amendment) Act, 2024, enforcing a province-wide ban on kite flying. This decision comes with severe penalties for violators to address the recurring fatalities caused by sharp kite strings.

Under the amended law, kite flying, as well as the transportation of kites, metallic wires, nylon cords, or threads coated with hazardous materials, is strictly prohibited.

Stringent Penalties

The law outlines stringent consequences for violators. Individuals caught flying kites could face imprisonment of three to five years, a fine of Rs2 million, or both. Failure to pay the fine could result in an additional year in prison.

For kite makers and transporters, the penalties are even more severe. Violators may face five to seven years in prison or a fine of Rs5 million. Non-payment of this fine could lead to an additional two years of imprisonment.

Minors caught in the act of kite flying will also face penalties. A first offence carries a Rs50,000 fine, escalating to Rs100,000 for a second offence. A third offence will invoke punishment under the Juvenile Justice System Act, 2018, which may include imprisonment.

Addressing Public Safety Concerns

The legislation aims to curb the alarming number of fatalities caused by sharp kite strings, particularly for motorcyclists. The bill cited a recent tragic incident where a man lost his life due to a stray kite string. "Dangerous kite flying has caused the deaths of many motorcyclists across Punjab," the bill noted.

Last year, a motorcyclist in Faisalabad died when a metal string from a kite cut his throat. The incident prompted then-Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to order an immediate crackdown on kite flying.

Declaring Kite Flying a Non-Bailable Offence

In August, the provincial government intensified efforts by classifying kite making, flying, and transportation as non-bailable offences. The newly amended law solidifies these measures by introducing harsher penalties designed to deter individuals from engaging in the activity.

The Punjab Assembly’s decision reflects its commitment to public safety and the prevention of avoidable tragedies. Authorities have emphasized the importance of strict implementation to ensure compliance with the law.

 
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